alkaline hydrolysis

Alkaline hydrolysis is a chemical process that uses a strongly basic solution, typically potassium or sodium hydroxide, combined with heat and pressure to break down organic matter.

In industrial and scientific contexts, it dissolves proteins and other biological materials into a sterile liquid.

The term has gained wider recognition as a method of disposition for human and animal remains, sometimes marketed as "water cremation" or "aquamation," offering an alternative to traditional burial or flame cremation.