Aquamation: Water Cremation Explained

Aquamation, also known as water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis, is a gentle alternative to traditional fire cremation that uses heated water and alkaline solutions to break down the body. This process returns the body to its basic elements, leaving behind bone fragments and a sterile liquid.

If you are considering end-of-life options or planning ahead, understanding aquamation can help you make informed decisions about what feels right for you or your loved one. This newer method offers environmental benefits and may align with certain religious or personal values.

How Aquamation Works

Aquamation uses a combination of water, heat, and alkaline chemicals to accelerate the natural decomposition process. The body is placed in a steel chamber filled with water and potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide.

The mixture is heated to approximately 300-350 degrees Fahrenheit and circulated for 3-6 hours. This process dissolves soft tissues while preserving bone fragments, similar to traditional cremation but without flame.

At the end of the cycle, only bone fragments remain. These are processed into a fine powder, just like with fire cremation, and returned to the family in an urn.

Aquamation vs Traditional Cremation

The main differences between aquamation and traditional cremation lie in the process and environmental impact. Traditional cremation uses fire and reaches temperatures of 1,400-1,800 degrees Fahrenheit, while aquamation uses water at much lower temperatures.

Aquamation produces about 20-30% more cremated remains than fire cremation because the process is gentler on bones. The remains are also whiter in color and have a softer texture.

From an environmental perspective, aquamation uses about 90% less energy than traditional cremation and produces no direct emissions or mercury pollution. The liquid byproduct is sterile and can be safely returned to the water system.

Legal Status and Availability

Aquamation is legal in more than 20 U.S. states, with the number growing each year. States that currently allow aquamation include California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, and Washington, among others.

The process was first legalized for human remains in Minnesota in 2003, and other states have gradually followed. Some states are still considering legislation to allow aquamation.

Not all funeral homes offer aquamation services, even in states where it is legal. You will need to specifically seek out providers who have invested in the specialized equipment required for the process.

Source: Caitlin Doughty Funeral Industry Research

Cost of Aquamation

Aquamation typically costs between $2,000 and $3,000, making it comparable to traditional cremation. The exact price varies by location and funeral home, as the equipment required is expensive and not yet widely available.

Some providers charge slightly more for aquamation than traditional cremation due to the specialized equipment and longer processing time. However, as the technology becomes more common, costs may decrease.

Like traditional cremation, aquamation is significantly less expensive than burial when you factor in the costs of a casket, burial vault, and cemetery plot.

Environmental Impact

Aquamation is considered more environmentally friendly than both traditional cremation and burial. The process uses about 90% less energy than fire cremation and produces no direct carbon emissions.

Traditional cremation releases mercury from dental fillings and other pollutants into the atmosphere. Aquamation eliminates these concerns because the process operates at much lower temperatures and produces no airborne emissions.

The liquid effluent from aquamation is sterile and nutrient-rich, containing amino acids, peptides, and other organic compounds. This liquid can be safely processed through existing wastewater treatment systems.

For families concerned about their environmental footprint, aquamation offers a gentler alternative that works with natural decomposition processes rather than against them.

Religious and Cultural Considerations

Many religious traditions that accept cremation also accept aquamation, though individual beliefs vary. Some faiths appreciate that aquamation uses natural elements (water) and avoids fire, which may align better with certain theological perspectives.

The Catholic Church, which began allowing cremation in 1963, generally accepts aquamation as equivalent to traditional cremation. However, individual dioceses may have different policies, so it is worth checking with local religious leaders.

Jewish perspectives on aquamation vary, with some Conservative and Reform communities accepting it while Orthodox communities typically do not. Islamic traditions generally prefer burial but some scholars have begun discussing aquamation as potentially acceptable.

If religion plays a role in your decision-making, consulting with your spiritual advisor about aquamation can provide guidance specific to your faith tradition.

The Aquamation Process Step by Step

When you choose aquamation, the process begins much like traditional cremation. The funeral home will obtain necessary permits and prepare the body according to your wishes and state requirements.

The body is placed in the aquamation chamber, typically within 24-48 hours after death. Some funeral homes may need to transport the body to a facility that offers aquamation if they do not have the equipment on-site.

During the 3-6 hour process, the chamber is sealed and the water solution is heated and circulated. The facility monitors the process to ensure it proceeds correctly.

After the cycle completes, the bone fragments are removed, dried, and processed into cremated remains. These are then returned to the family in an urn, just like with traditional cremation.

The timeline from death to receiving the cremated remains is typically similar to traditional cremation, usually 3-7 days depending on local requirements and the funeral home’s schedule.

Choosing an Aquamation Provider

Finding an aquamation provider requires some research, as the service is not yet widely available. Start by checking whether aquamation is legal in your state, as this determines your options.

Look for funeral homes or crematories that specifically advertise aquamation services. Some facilities may partner with other providers to offer aquamation even if they do not have the equipment themselves.

Ask potential providers about their experience with aquamation, their equipment, and their process. Since this is newer technology, you want to work with providers who are knowledgeable and experienced.

Consider visiting the facility if possible, especially if this is important to your comfort level. Some families find it helpful to see where the process will take place and meet the staff who will handle their loved one’s care.

Planning Ahead with Aquamation

If you are interested in aquamation for yourself, documenting this preference in your advance directives or will can help ensure your wishes are followed. Many families are not familiar with aquamation, so clear documentation prevents confusion during a difficult time.

Consider discussing your preference with family members ahead of time. Explaining why aquamation appeals to you, whether for environmental reasons or personal values, can help your family feel confident in honoring your choice.

You can also pre-plan aquamation services with a funeral home that offers the option. This removes the burden from your family and ensures the process will be handled according to your preferences.

Keep in mind that aquamation availability may expand over time, so even if it is not currently offered in your area, it might be an option in the future. Staying informed about legal changes in your state can help you plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aquamation

Is aquamation the same as water cremation?

Yes, aquamation and water cremation refer to the same process. The technical term is alkaline hydrolysis, but these more accessible names help people understand what the process involves. Some providers may use different terms, but they all describe the same water-based body disposition method.

How long does aquamation take?

The aquamation process itself takes 3-6 hours, depending on factors like body size and the specific equipment used. However, the total timeline from death to receiving cremated remains is typically 3-7 days, similar to traditional cremation, due to paperwork, permits, and scheduling requirements.

Can aquamation be done if someone has medical implants?

Yes, aquamation can typically accommodate medical implants like pacemakers, artificial joints, and dental work. Unlike traditional cremation, which requires removal of certain devices before the process, aquamation is gentler and poses fewer risks. However, specific policies may vary by provider.

What happens to the liquid from aquamation?

The liquid effluent from aquamation is sterile and contains amino acids and other organic compounds. It is safely processed through existing wastewater treatment systems. The liquid meets all environmental safety standards and poses no risk to water supplies.

Are aquamation remains different from traditional cremation remains?

Aquamation produces 20-30% more cremated remains than traditional cremation because the process is gentler on bones. The remains are also typically whiter in color and have a softer, more powdery texture. However, they serve the same purpose and can be kept, scattered, or buried just like traditional cremated remains.

Understanding aquamation gives you another option to consider when planning for end-of-life arrangements. Whether you choose this method for environmental reasons, personal preferences, or religious considerations, knowing what the process involves helps you make informed decisions during a challenging time. For more guidance on funeral planning and end-of-life arrangements, explore our funeral planning checklist and learn about what to do when someone dies.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or financial advice. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance specific to your situation.