Crematoria

A crematorium is a facility where human or animal remains are cremated. The process takes place in one or more cremation chambers, known as retorts or cremators, where bodies are placed in sealed, combustible containers. Cremation typically occurs at high temperatures and can last from about one to three hours, depending on the body size and equipment. After cremation, the resulting remains are cooled, processed into a granular powder, and returned to the family in an urn or container. The term cremains is commonly used to refer to the remaining material.

Modern cremation developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and subsequently spread around the world. Adoption and regulation have varied by country and region, influenced by cultural, religious, and environmental considerations. Crematoria are often located near cemeteries or as standalone facilities and may provide ancillary services such as memorial spaces, arranging funerals, and handling of administrative records.

Equipment and operations typical of a crematorium include a furnace or cremator with primary and secondary combustion chambers and, in many modern installations, an afterburner or air pollution control system to reduce emissions. The process is governed by procedures to assure identification and chain of custody of remains, as well as health, safety, and environmental protections. Emissions are subject to air quality regulations, and many facilities use particulate filters and scrubbers.

In cultural contexts, cremation practices vary considerably. Some jurisdictions permit the scattering of ashes, others require retention in an urn or placement in a columbarium, and certain regions recognize alternatives such as alkaline hydrolysis (water cremation), which is available in a limited number of areas.