What Is Aquamation (Alkaline Hydrolysis) and How Is It Different From Cremation?
By CRYSTAL BAI •
The short answer: Aquamation — also called alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation — is a disposition method that uses warm water, pressure, and alkaline chemicals to dissolve soft tissue, leaving only the bone mineral behind. It produces about 20% more bone fragments than flame cremation and uses 90% less energy.
How Aquamation Works
The process mimics natural decomposition but is accelerated:
- The body is placed in a stainless steel vessel filled with water and potassium hydroxide (lye)
- The solution is heated to 200–300°F and pressurized
- Over 3–18 hours, soft tissue dissolves completely
- The remaining bone is rinsed, dried, and processed into a fine white powder
- The liquid — a sterile, pH-neutral solution — is released to municipal water systems
Aquamation vs. Flame Cremation
| Factor | Aquamation | Flame Cremation |
|---|---|---|
| Process | Water + alkaline chemicals | High heat (1400–1800°F) |
| Duration | 3–18 hours | 2–3 hours |
| Energy use | ~90% less than flame | High energy/fossil fuel |
| Remains returned | ~20% more bone | Standard amount |
| Ash color | White/cream | Gray |
| Mercury emissions | None | Yes (from dental fillings) |
| Cost | $2,500–$5,000 | $1,500–$3,500 |
Which States Allow Aquamation?
As of 2025, alkaline hydrolysis is legal in over 20 states, including:
- California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Nevada
- Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Minnesota, Missouri
- Maine, Vermont, Connecticut, New Hampshire
- Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas
Why Families Choose Aquamation
- Environmental values: Significantly lower carbon footprint than flame cremation
- Gentler process: Many families feel the water-based method is more peaceful
- More remains: Families receive more bone material to keep, scatter, or memorialize
- No mercury: Unlike flame cremation, dental amalgam is contained in the liquid
Religious Perspectives
Most religious communities that accept cremation also accept aquamation. The Catholic Church has not issued a specific ruling on aquamation, but has generally permitted cremation since 1963. Jewish, Islamic, and Eastern Orthodox traditions that traditionally prohibit cremation also raise concerns about aquamation.