krematorium

A krematorium is a facility equipped for cremation of human remains. It typically contains one or more cremation chambers (retorts), a preparation area, a cooling and processing room, and spaces for handling, storage, and family services. The facility may also host a chapel or memorial space.

The cremation process begins with identification and consent, followed by preparation of the body and placement in a suitable container. The container is transferred to a sealed cremation chamber, the door is closed, and the body is cremated at high temperatures, generally around 800 to 1000 degrees Celsius. The process may take from one to several hours, depending on the chamber design and the size of the individual.

After cooling, bone fragments remain and are processed into fine ashes. These cremated remains are placed in an urn or other container and returned to the family, with records kept for identification.

Krematoriums operate under national or local regulations and obtain licenses. They employ controls to limit emissions, including filtration and monitoring systems, in order to minimize environmental impact. Safety, privacy, and respectful handling of the deceased are central to practice. In many jurisdictions, cremation is one of several options for disposition of remains, alongside burial or other methods such as alkaline hydrolysis, with the choice often guided by cultural, religious, and personal preferences.