Aquamation vs Alkaline Hydrolysis: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

When searching for modern and environmentally responsible alternatives to traditional burial or cremation, more and more families are discovering a groundbreaking option: Aquamation, also known as Alkaline Hydrolysis. Though the two terms may sound like different processes, they actually refer to the exact same gentle, water-based procedure. The only difference? Aquamation is a more approachable, trademarked term often used by funeral providers like EndsWell Funeral Home, while Alkaline Hydrolysis is the scientific name.

If you’re in North Carolina and are exploring cremation alternatives, this article will help you understand the process, benefits, and availability of aquamation—and why EndsWell Funeral Home in Hillsborough and Chapel Hill is a trusted local provider helping families choose this sustainable path with confidence and care.

Aquamation vs Alkaline Hydrolysis: What’s the Difference?

To answer the question, “What’s the difference between aquamation and alkaline hydrolysis?”—there isn’t one. They refer to the exact same process.

The reason people hear “aquamation” more often is because it’s a trademarked name. Originally coined for branding purposes, the term “aquamation” was created to sound gentler and more appealing to families. Its rise in popularity is largely due to funeral homes and service providers adopting the word in place of the more clinical “alkaline hydrolysis.”

Aquamation is often described as “water-based cremation” to help people understand the process in simpler terms.

Alkaline Hydrolysis, on the other hand, is the scientific and regulatory name used to describe the actual chemical procedure.

Regardless of the name, the process is the same. It uses a combination of water, alkali (typically potassium or sodium hydroxide), heat, and gentle pressure to speed up the body’s natural decomposition. It mimics what would happen in nature over time—just in a more controlled, respectful environment that completes the transformation within hours.

How Aquamation Works: Step-by-Step

At EndsWell Funeral Home, the aquamation process is handled with care and dignity every step of the way. Here’s what typically happens:

1. The body is respectfully placed in a stainless steel chamber.
2. A solution of 95% warm water and 5% alkali is added.
3. The chamber is heated to about 300°F while maintaining gentle pressure to prevent boiling.
4. Over 4–16 hours, the natural decomposition process is accelerated, breaking down soft tissue.
5. The only solid remains are pure white bone fragments, which are then processed into a soft, fine ash and returned to the family.
6. A sterile, nutrient-rich liquid byproduct remains, which is either returned to the environment or filtered through the wastewater system—depending on local guidelines.

Families receive a container of ashes, similar to traditional cremation, but the process is fire-free, emission-free, and uses a fraction of the energy.

Why More Families in North Carolina Are Choosing Aquamation

EndsWell Funeral Home is proud to offer aquamation because it aligns with many families’ values today—environmental awareness, compassion, and transparency. Here’s why it’s becoming one of the top choices in Hillsborough, Chapel Hill, Durham, and across North Carolina:

Eco-Friendly

Aquamation uses up to 90% less energy than flame cremation. It produces zero emissions—no CO₂, no mercury, no airborne toxins. There’s no need for burning fossil fuels or using fire.

Gentle & Respectful

The water-based process is considered more natural and less harsh than traditional flame cremation. It appeals to families who find comfort in knowing that their loved one’s body is treated gently.

Chemical-Free

Unlike burial, which often involves embalming fluids, metal caskets, and concrete vaults, aquamation uses no toxic chemicals, making it a cleaner and safer option for both people and the planet.

Spiritual & Ethical Considerations

Some families, for cultural or religious reasons, prefer to avoid fire or invasive procedures. Aquamation offers a dignified alternative that feels in line with their beliefs.

Who Is Aquamation For?

At EndsWell Funeral Home, aquamation has been chosen by a wide range of families—from those seeking a more sustainable legacy to those wanting a softer alternative to fire cremation. It’s especially popular among:

• Eco-conscious individuals
• Parents of infants or stillborn babies looking for a fire-free option
• Pet owners, as pet aquamation is widely practiced
• Spiritual or religious families who value natural, non-invasive processes

Regardless of your background, aquamation provides a unique way to honor your loved one’s life with grace, care, and modern values.

Availability of Aquamation in North Carolina

Aquamation (Alkaline Hydrolysis) is now legal in over 25 states, including North Carolina, where EndsWell Funeral Home has led the way in offering this service locally. Based in Hillsborough and serving the surrounding areas including Chapel Hill, Durham, Cary, Raleigh, and beyond, EndsWell makes the process simple and accessible.

If aquamation isn’t available at a funeral home near you, EndsWell Funeral Home may be able to help with transportation or referrals to ensure your family’s wishes are respected.

Comparing Aquamation to Cremation and Burial

Choose EndsWell Funeral Home for Aquamation in North Carolina

At EndsWell, we believe in offering families every option to create a meaningful, eco-conscious, and dignified farewell. Our staff will walk you through every step, explain all your choices, and help you decide if aquamation is the right fit for your loved one—and your values.

If you’re located in Hillsborough, Chapel Hill, Durham, or anywhere in North Carolina, we invite you to contact us today to learn more. Whether you’re pre-planning or facing a recent loss, our team is here with compassion and clarity.

Aquamation is the future of gentle, earth-friendly aftercare—and EndsWell Funeral Home is here to guide you every step of the way.