Glossary
Alkaline hydrolysis
Alkaline hydrolysis, also called water cremation or aquamation, is a process that reduces a body to bone fragments using heated water and an alkali instead of flame. The bone is then dried and processed into ash-like remains returned to the family.
The body is placed in a pressurized or atmospheric vessel with a solution of water and potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide, then gently heated for several hours. What remains is a sterile liquid and softened bone.
Supporters describe it as a lower-energy alternative to flame cremation with no direct combustion emissions. Its legal status varies widely: only some US states authorize it for human remains, so availability depends on where you live.
The family receives processed bone remains comparable in volume to flame cremation, which can be kept, buried, scattered, or placed in an urn.
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Common questions
- Is alkaline hydrolysis legal in my state?
- Not everywhere. Only some US states authorize alkaline hydrolysis for human remains, and rules change over time, so availability depends on where you live. A local funeral home or your state's licensing board can confirm whether it is offered near you.
- How much does water cremation cost compared with flame cremation?
- Where it is offered, water cremation is often priced similarly to or somewhat above flame cremation, but costs vary by provider and region. Ask for an itemized price list, which the FTC Funeral Rule entitles you to, so you can compare options directly.
- What do you get back after alkaline hydrolysis?
- The family receives dried, processed bone remains similar in appearance and volume to flame cremation. They can be kept in an urn, buried, scattered, or placed in a niche, subject to your state and local rules.
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This definition is general information, not legal or financial advice. Laws and prices vary by state and provider. See our editorial standards.