The Science of Aquamation®
Understanding the Natural Process Behind Water Cremation
Aquamation is rooted in proven scientific principles that have been used safely and effectively for decades. By understanding the science behind this gentle process, families can feel confident in choosing this innovative alternative to traditional cremation.
The Chemistry of Alkaline Hydrolysis
Basic Scientific Principle
Aquamation accelerates the same natural decomposition process that occurs when a body returns to the earth over many years. The scientific name, alkaline hydrolysis, describes exactly what happens:
Alkaline: A basic (high pH) solution that breaks down organic matter
Hydrolysis: The breakdown of chemical bonds using water molecules
Natural Process: The same chemistry that occurs in soil, just faster and controlled
The Chemical Reaction
During aquamation, proteins and fats in the body are broken down through a process called saponification.
The alkaline solution causes:
Protein Breakdown: Complex proteins dissolve into simple amino acids
Fat Conversion: Fats transform into soap-like substances (hence "saponification")
Tissue Dissolution: Soft tissues gently separate from bone structure
Mineral Preservation: Bone minerals (calcium phosphate) remain intact
The Role of Key Elements
Water: The Gentle Solvent
Water serves as the primary medium for the process:
Universal Solvent: Water naturally breaks down organic compounds
Temperature Control: Warm water (200-300°F) provides gentle, consistent heat
Circulation: Moving water ensures even distribution of the alkaline solution
Safety: Water creates a controlled, contained environment
Alkaline Solution: The Natural Catalyst
The alkaline component (typically potassium hydroxide) is:
Food-Grade Safe: The same compound used in soap making and food processing
Naturally Occurring: Found in many plants and manufactured safely for decades
pH Balanced: Creates the optimal alkaline environment for gentle breakdown
Biodegradable: Completely breaks down into harmless components
Controlled Heat: The Accelerator
The gentle heat application
Speeds Natural Process: Accelerates what would happen naturally over years
Maintains Control: Consistent temperature ensures predictable results
Preserves Dignity: Much lower than cremation temperatures (1,400-1,800°F)
Energy Efficient: Requires 90% less energy than flame cremation
The Step-by-Step Scientific Process
Phase 1: Preparation (30 minutes)
Your Loved One is respectfully placed inside a stainless steel chamber
Medical devices are noted and will be recovered later
Chamber is sealed and filled with water and alkaline solution
The Temperature and pH levels are carefully calibrated
Phase 2: Gentle Breakdown (4-6 hours)
Warm alkaline solution circulates continuously
Soft tissues gradually dissolve through hydrolysis
Proteins break down into amino acids
Fats convert to soap-like substances
Bone structure remains completely intact
Phase 3: Completion and Processing (1-2 hours)
Solution is neutralised and safely disposed of
Remaining bone structure is cleaned and dried
Any medical implants are removed and disposed of properly
What Remains After Aquamation
Phase 3: Completion and Processing (1-2 hours)
The final remains consist entirely of:
Bones are processed into fine, consistent cremated remains
Trace Minerals: Small amounts of other naturally occurring bone minerals
Pure White Powder: Clean, odorless, and completely sterile
20-30% More Volume: Better preservation than high-heat cremation
Sterility and Safety
The aquamation process produces remains that are:
Completely Sterile: Free from bacteria, viruses, or pathogens
Chemical-Free: No artificial preservatives or additives
Safe to Handle: No health risks for families or funeral professionals
Environmentally Safe: Suitable for scattering or burial without concern
Environmental Science Benefits
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Scientific studies show aquamation:
Uses 90% Less Energy: Significantly lower environmental impact
Produces No Emissions: No greenhouse gases or pollutants released
Prevents Mercury Release: Dental amalgam safely contained and recovered
Water Conservation: Uses less water than maintaining cemetery grounds
Waste Reduction
The process eliminates:
Embalming Chemicals: No toxic formaldehyde or preservatives needed
Casket Materials: No wood, metal, or synthetic materials required
Land Use: No burial space needed for ground disposition
Water Conservation: Uses less water than maintaining cemetery grounds
Chemical Runoff: No groundwater contamination from burial chemicals
Decades of Proven Science
Research and Development
Aquamation technology has been:
Scientifically Studied: Extensively researched since the 1990s
Veterinary Proven: Used safely in pet cremation for over 20 years
University Tested: Employed in medical schools and research facilities
Continuously Improved: Technology refined through ongoing scientific advancement
Safety Standards
The process meets or exceeds:
Health Department Regulations: Strict pathogen elimination standards
Environmental Protection Requirements: Safe disposal of all byproducts
Occupational Safety Standards: Protected working conditions for operators
Quality Assurance Protocols: Consistent, reliable results every time
The Future of Gentle Science
As environmental awareness grows and technology advances, aquamation represents the evolution of death care science. This process demonstrates how modern scientific understanding can create solutions that are simultaneously more gentle, more environmentally responsible, and more meaningful for families.
The science of aquamation proves that innovation doesn't require compromise—families can choose a process that honours both their loved ones and the planet through the elegant application of natural chemistry.
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4/48 Export Drive, Molendinar, QLD, 4214
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