Green Goodbye - Asheville, NC Area
Our Location
Church Street Funeral & Cremation
125 South Church Street, Hendersonville, North Carolina 28792, United States, (828) 309-0103
Aquamation Services
Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional flame-based cremation or burial. It uses a water-based process that breaks down the body into its basic elements.
How Aquamation Works
Alkaline Hydrolysis Process: The body is placed in a stainless steel chamber filled with a solution of water and alkaline chemicals (usually potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide).
Heat and Pressure
The solution is heated to approximately 200-300°F (93-150°C), and gentle pressure is applied. This accelerates natural decomposition, mimicking how a body would break down in soil over time.
Timeframe
The process typically takes 4 to 6 hours, depending on the system and equipment used.
The End Result
The soft tissue dissolves, leaving only the bones. The bones are then dried, processed into a fine powder, and returned to the family as cremated remains. The remaining liquid, a sterile solution of water, salts, and amino acids, can be safely returned to the environment.
