alkaline hydrolysis

American  

[al-kuh-lahyn-hahy-drahl-uh-sis, al-kuh-lin] / ˈæl kəˌlaɪn haɪˈdrɑl ə sɪs, ˈæl kəˌlɪn /

noun

1. the process of reducing a dead body to an ash-like substance by placing the remains in a heated mixture of water and potassium hydroxide.

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Example Sentences

"Through using alkaline hydrolysis, organic body compounds can be dissolved, leaving only bone, which can then be cremated to ash for your urn. The hydrolysis liquid is safe for water disposal, and this process helps limit the use of traditional cremation incinerators."

From Salon

Alkaline hydrolysis, also known as water cremation, is a natural method of decomposition that uses water to cremate the body.

From Los Angeles Times

Water cremation, also called alkaline hydrolysis, involves the body being placed in a chamber and broken down by a combination of water, heat and a strong alkali.

From BBC

The low-impact act of dissolving a body in a mixture of water and potassium hydroxide, called alkaline hydrolysis, is now allowed in 20 states.

From Slate

Cremation, where the chamber heats to an optimum temperature of 1,400 to 1,600 degrees Fahrenheit, requires an average of two to three hours; alkaline hydrolysis, with Bio-Response Solutions’ machines starting at $174,000, can take 16 to 20.

From Washington Post