Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, water cremation, or bio-cremation, is an alternative to traditional cremation for the disposition of human or animal remains. It is an eco-friendly process that uses water, heat, and alkaline chemicals to accelerate the natural decomposition of organic material.

Here’s how the aquamation process typically works:

Preparation: The body is placed in a specially designed vessel or chamber that is filled with a mixture of water and alkali, typically potassium hydroxide (KOH) or sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The chamber is sealed to prevent leakage.

Alkaline Hydrolysis: The chamber is heated to a temperature of around 160-180 degrees Celsius (320-356 degrees Fahrenheit) and maintained at a slightly alkaline pH level. Under these conditions, the combination of heat and alkalinity breaks down the organic materials in the body into their basic chemical components through a process called hydrolysis.

Dissolution: Over a period of several hours to a day, the body undergoes complete dissolution, leaving behind only bone fragments and any non-organic materials (such as metal implants or prosthetics). The bone fragments are typically soft and can be easily pulverized into a fine powder.

Final Processing: The remaining bone fragments are rinsed and dried before being processed into a powder-like substance similar to cremated remains (ashes). These ashes can then be returned to the family for memorialization or disposed of in a manner of their choosing.

Aquamation offers several potential benefits compared to traditional flame-based cremation, including:

Environmentally Friendly: Aquamation has a lower environmental impact than traditional cremation, as it produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions and does not release harmful pollutants into the atmosphere.

Gentle Process: Aquamation is a gentle and natural process that mimics the body’s natural decomposition process, resulting in minimal tissue disruption and a softer, more natural-looking final product.

Efficient Use of Energy: While aquamation requires energy to heat the water and maintain the alkaline conditions, it typically consumes less energy overall than traditional cremation.

Safe Handling of Implants: Metal implants and prosthetics can be safely recovered and disposed of after aquamation, reducing the risk of environmental contamination from heavy metals.

Aquamation is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional burial or cremation, particularly among individuals and families seeking more environmentally sustainable end-of-life options. However, availability may vary depending on location and local regulations governing the disposition of human and animal remains.