Resomation — A Chemical Cremation Process

The Department of Anatomy at Mayo Clinic implemented resomation, a method of chemical cremation, in February of 2006. This method is based on a chemical reaction known as alkaline hydrolysis. This reaction is similar to physiological reactions of protein degradation occurring naturally in every cell of our body. This reaction converts proteins, nucleic acids and lipids in all tissues and cells of the body into aqueous solution of small peptides, amino acids, sugars and soaps. The marble-white ashes that remain as a final product from chemical cremation include mineral compounds such as calcium and phosphates of bones. The chemical cremation process is environmentally friendly. Since alkaline hydrolysis is not a combustion process, it does not produce toxic gases or other environmental pollutants. Ashes can be easily recovered for burial in the Mayo Vault at the Oakwood Cemetery or returned to the family if requested. Our chemical cremation facility located in the Stabile building (the same building housing the anatomy laboratory) is approved and licensed by the State of Minnesota. We feel that utilizing this facility in our Department provides more privacy for our donors (as remains do not leave our building for traditional cremation to outside funeral homes) and represents a dignified way to facilitate the final disposition of our donors' bodies.

For further questions regarding this process feel free to contact Mr. Terry Regnier, our Director of Anatomical Services, at 507-284-2693.