A funeral home in Florida has introduced what it claims is a non-toxic alternative to cremation by installing a "body liquefaction unit",the BBC has reported. 

BBC’s science reporter Neil Bowdler has also explained how the chamber works.

“The system works by submerging the body in a solution of water and potassium hydroxide which is pressurised to 10 atmospheres and heated to 180C for between two-and-a-half and three hours,” he writes.

“Body tissue is dissolved and the liquid poured into the municipal water system. The bones are then removed from the unit and processed in a "cremulator". Metals including mercury and artificial joints and implants are safely recovered”.

Many people have reportedly signed up for the process and a number of bodies are being held in cold storage because, prior to their deaths, they agreed to undergo the process.

It was not the first time the technology is being used for disposing human bodies.

A similar machine developed by Aquamation Industries was used in Australia last year and another company used it in Ohio early this year.

Related Link: Green Cemeteries - Aquamation