Is acid used in the process?

There is absolutely no acid used during this water-based process.

Eirene avatar
Written by Eirene
Updated over a week ago

No - Aquamation uses a catalyst called alkali, which is the chemical opposite of an acid. Alkalis are made from sodium and potassium salts.

One is an alkaline called potassium hydroxide (KOH), which is a colourless solid, inorganic compound. KOH was the precursor to numerous health and beauty cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, and this substance is also used in blanching olives, soft soaps, cleaning supplies, and other items you would commonly find in your home.

The other is called Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH). It too is commonly used in household cleaners, and water treatment.

In total, 95% water and 5% alkalis are used. During the aquamation process, the reaction of KOH and NaOH in water is exothermic, meaning they give off heat which contributes to the hydrolyzing or breakdown of the human tissue in the sealed aquamation vessel.

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