Cremation Process

Cremation is simply the act of burning a corpse of any formerly living being. Any animal can go through the act. The cremation process involves a large furnace called a crematorium that generates temperatures up to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit (980 degrees Celsius). The crematorium is fueled with natural gas, propane or, in some less advanced countries, coal. The body is actually placed in a smaller chamber inside the much larger crematorium. This chamber is most often called a retort and is lined with heat resistant bricks to allow the process to be done many times without any damage do any crucial component. This entire cremation process lasts about two hours. Contrary to popular belief, the remains left are not ashes but dry bone fragments. These bone fragments (professionally called “cremains”) represent only about 3.5% of the former corpse as the rest has vaporized and oxidized due to the extreme heat created in the crematorium. If desired by the family, jewelry or some other valuables can be disposed of with the body but common practice is to return these items to the family members or other loved one. The only item absolutely required to be removed is the pacemaker device that aids the heart in keeping a normal rhythm. This is due to the fact that the pacemaker can explode during the cremation process and release toxins and potentially destroy the crematorium.

Common practice is to place the bone fragments, ashes, cremains, whatever you wish to call them, into a container for either storage or to disperse in some location. A simple cardboard box could be used, Tupperware, or some choose to buy what is known as a urn. A urn is a vase usually made of ceramics or metal that can be displayed in a fairly classy manner.

The remains can be dispersed in pretty much any location as they are biodegradable and not toxic in any way. However, some jurisdictions might require that you obtain a permit for dispersal, most likely to keep public order. It would be very odd for someone to disperse the remains at a sports game in front of 40,000+ people and force the athletes to play on. Popular dispersal sites are national parks (with a permit), the sea, and open meadows. Burial is also an option. Furthermore, many companies have been established to do creative things with the remains after the cremation process has ended. Examples include special ceremonies involving fireworks, firing devices, space launch, etc. There is even a company that will turn the remains into an artificial diamond that can be used just like any regular diamond.

Cremation is not for everyone but it is a safe, environmentally friendly and dignified way to dispose of any living being. The process sounds harsh but there is no other way to ensure the remains are safe for handling and dispersal.