Originally Invented in 1888 as a means of disposing of animal carcasses, 'water cremation' has increased in popularity as consumers searched for a more environmentally responsible interment than cremation.

Bio-Response Solutions designed the first human 'resomator' in 2005 for the Mayo Clinic, where it is still in use.

Alkaline Hydrolysis appeals to those who seek a gentler method of 'body to bones,' those uncomfortable with flame-based cremation or burial, and individuals seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.



There is no need for the body to be embalmed or otherwise prepared for resomation. Metal fillings and electronic implants will simple liquefy - unlike in cremation, where metal fillings create mercury emissions and electronic implants may explode.



The chamber fills with water. Elevated pressure prevents the solution from boiling. The lye gradually breaks down the body into its chemical components, leaving bone fragments.



The bone fragments are crushed into a powder, and can be taken home in an urn, much like cremation. The liquid leftover from Alkaline Hydrolysis is usually flushed down the drain to the municipal sewer system, much like in the embalming process.

Alkaline Hydrolysis

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Alkaline hydrolysis costs about $2,000 and up.

  • It is only legal in 18 states, so travel may be required.
  • Transporting a body across State lines can get complicated, with some states requiring embalming or refridgeration.

Alkaline Hydrolysis is more environmentally friendly than cremation.

  • The process uses about one-tenth the energy a crematorium does.
  • There are no emissions from the process.
  • It does not incinerate implants, mercury or other pollutants.
  • The process uses about 300 gallons of water. Upon completion, the solution,
  • made up of 82% fresh water, 4% KOH and 14% hydrolized human remains,
  • is drained into the municipal sewer system,
  • much like the effluvia removed during the embalming process.

Like cremation, there is usually no witness for Alkaline Hydrolysis.

  • While there is limited or no family participation in the process, families can still have a service separate from the procedure.
  • The traditional tray can be replaced with a rented casket, if desired.
  • Remains may be returned to families for storage, much like in cremation.
  • The remains from Alkaline Hydrolysis can also be used as fertilizer.

Not all religions have an offical stance on Alkaline Hydrolysis.

  • While Christian faiths accept cremation as a means of disposal, 'water cremation' remains somewhat controversial.
  • Some American Catholic diocese consider the process a denigration of the human body.
  • A Catholic Conference in Ohio successfully prevented legislation legalizing Alkaline Hydrolysis on these grounds.

Alkaline Hydrolysis is legal in 18 states.

  • The number of Funeral Directors offering Alkaline Hydrolysis is further limited by the cost of purchasing and installing a resomator: usually around $400,000.