What is hydro cremation?

By Irina Jordan

The hydro cremation is an environmentally focused cremation alternative that is both dignified and effective. The process uses 95% water and 5% alkali instead of direct flame and fossil fuels to cremate human remains. The body is placed in a stainless steel cremation chamber where water (95%), an alkali additive (5%), heat and pressure are added. The hydro cremation uses this combination of water, alkali, heat and pressure to perform the cremation, gently reducing the body to bone fragments and a sterile solution that is recycled to the earth.

The average adult body (depending on size) takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Current technology (size chamber) can accommodate a body weighing up to 350 lbs. Upon completion of the cremation cycle, bones are dried and processed to a powdery substance which is then placed in a container (urn) and given back to family. Unlike traditional cremation, pacemakers can be left intact. Prosthetic devices and implants can be recovered intact and may be recycled if the family chooses.