Frequently Asked Questions
How do you achieve a 4-hour process with low-pressure AH?
Aquaternal’s patented water cremation technology uses the same alkali solution and heat as other low-pressure alkaline hydrolysis (AH) systems but adds a gentle rocking motion of the internal cradle. This movement continuously exposes more soft tissue to the alkaline solution, accelerating natural decomposition without compromising dignity or care. This innovation enables a full process cycle in approximately 4 hours, improving efficiency while maintaining respect for the deceased.
Do odors occur during the process?
No harmful air emissions are produced. The process is fully enclosed and only vents a small amount of water vapor and a mild ammonia odor through a 1-inch pipe to the exterior.
What chemicals are used in Aquaternal’s water cremation process?
Aquaternal systems use potassium hydroxide (KOH), introduced either as a metered liquid chemical or 90% pure dry flakes added manually depending on operator preference. Our unique, patented v-trough design safely introduces the dry chemical to the water at the start of the rotational rocking cycle.
What other innovations does Aquaternal incorporate?
Our patented internal baffles have been shown to improve operational efficiency by up to 25%, while integrated heat exchangers recover and reuse heat between cycles. Combined with an insulated chamber this allows operators to run multiple cycles per day with minimal energy use, reducing both costs and carbon footprint.
How does Aquaternal achieve 1/20th the carbon footprint and 90% less energy compared to flame cremation?
Flame cremation requires fossil fuels to maintain temperatures of ~1,800°F, while our process runs at ~200°F. We measure total energy input per cycle, convert it to BTUs, and compare it to a standard flame cremation cycle. By reusing heat between cycles, our systems consume up to 90% less energy and produce 1/20th the carbon emissions.
Is water cremation safe for the environment?
Yes, the byproducts of water cremation are sterile and safe to handle. The bone can be returned to families as fine powderized remains for safekeeping or memorial services.
The standard practice in the industry is to cool the effluent and adjust the pH down to meet municipal standards for disposal, usually around pH 9.0 – pH 10. The liquid by-product at the end of the cycle is cooled to safe discharge levels by passing cold water through our proprietary built-in heat exchanger. This saves on water and recaptures heat energy for the next cycle.
Additionally, we have developed a proprietary treatment system that reduces BOD/COD and suspended solids down to acceptable levels to meet most municipal regulations. This secondary treatment of the liquid effectively addresses many concerns raised by municipalities regarding trade waste from water cremation facilities, thus facilitating smoother permit approvals.
Aquaternal supports cyclical economies and sustainable practices promoting the use of their treated nutrient-dense liquid byproduct to revitalise depleted soils in an effort to restore, retain and rebuild biodiverse forests. See our Linkedin article here.
What is water cremation and how does it work?
Water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, aquamation, or resomation, is an eco-friendly alternative to flame cremation and burial. It uses a gentle solution of water and alkali at a warm temperature to accelerate natural decomposition, returning only sterile bone remains and a nutrient-rich liquid. This process is energy-efficient, produces no harmful air emissions, and is widely recognized as a sustainable death care option.
Is alkaline hydrolysis legal where I live?
As of August 2025, alkaline hydrolysis is legal for humans in 26 U.S. states and is expanding across Canada, the United Kingdom, South Africa and Australia. For pet aftercare, water cremation is legal throughout North America and is available in many more regions worldwide, often led by veterinary networks and municipalities.
In Europe, adoption is accelerating:
- Netherlands: Water cremation for humans expected to be legalized in 2025. Pilot study installations for pet AH operational in three facilities.
- Belgium and Luxembourg: Actively reviewing legislation to integrate AH into green burial frameworks.
- Spain, Portugal, and Italy: Environmental agencies are assessing AH as part of decarbonization and sustainable cemetery initiatives.
- Nordic countries (Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland): Growing interest in AH aligns with their ambitious environmental and circular economy goals.
As EU regulations prioritize circular economies, decarbonization, and wastewater innovation, alkaline hydrolysis is emerging as a future-ready standard. This positions Aquaternal’s portfolio of patents as a strategic asset for forward-thinking death care providers.