Things You Need to Know About Water Cremation

Water cremation is a method of disposal that combines an alkaline solution of sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide with pressurized, high-temperature water. Consider looking into the cremation services in Roy, WA to learn more.

What Exactly Is Water Cremation

Water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, bio cremation, resomation, flameless cremation, aquamation, or hydration, is a method of disposing of human and animal remains that uses water and alkali salts. The procedure is an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative to traditional options such as burial or fire cremation.

It is important to note that alkali salts are only used to accelerate the natural decomposition of water. It is the water that does the cremating, not the alkali. Temperatures inside the water cremation chamber can reach 200 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit, compared to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit for flame cremation.

What Are the Origins of Water Cremation

Water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis began as a method for farmers to convert animal carcasses into plant food. Amos Herbert Hobson of Middlesex, England, patented the process in 1888. The Mayo Clinic installed the first commercial alkaline hydrolysis installation for the disposal of bodies donated to science. It is still in use today.

Alkaline hydrolysis was used to dispose of cows infected with mad cow disease in the 1990s. It became a popular method of disposition for both human and animal remains in the 2000s.

Is Water Cremation Environmentally Friendly

Water cremation emits no pollutants and does not pollute waterways or ground soil with mercury or other dangerous pathogens.

Why Should You Choose Water Cremation Over Fire Cremation

Water cremation may be preferred over fire cremation for a variety of reasons. Water cremation is far more environmentally friendly, uses far less fuel, and has a lower overall carbon footprint.

Water cremation produces pure, brilliant, and white ashes, as opposed to the sandy, more granular ashes produced by flame cremation. Water cremation also produces 33 percent more ashes than flame cremation, implying that you will receive more of your loved one after the process.

How Long Does It Take to Cremate With Water

The water cremation process usually takes four to eight hours for humans, but it can take up to 18 hours for animals, depending on the size of the body and the temperature of the solution. The entire process can take up to two weeks from pickup to return of ashes.

What Transpires to the Liquid Following a Water Cremation

Following the completion of the water cremation process, the remaining bone matter is washed clean, and the effluent or the remaining liquid can be used as a nutrient solution for plants or returned to the ecosystem via your local wastewater treatment facility. The solution is completely sterile and comprised of amino acids, salts, nutrients, and sugars, the natural byproducts of decomposition.

What Should I Do With the Cremated Remains

The process is complete once you have received the ashes. You can scatter them, keep them in an urn, or divide them among relatives. Whatever you choose, you can be certain that you said goodbye to your loved one in the most environmentally friendly way possible.

If you are thinking about water cremation for yourself or a loved one, please look into the cremation services in Roy, WA and contact us or come and see us. Our team is more than happy to help you with anything you need to know.