At Recompose, the human composting process takes place in a device we call a vessel. It is a steel cylinder, 8 feet long and 4 feet tall. Each vessel rests inside of a hexagonal frame.
Each body is placed into the vessel on a bed of wood chips, alfalfa, and straw. Additional plant material is added as a blanket to cocoon the body within the vessel. The temperature inside the vessel rises over time due to microbial activity, and is sustained over 131 degrees Fahrenheit for a minimum of three continuous days.
Inside the vessel, the body and plant materials break down thanks to the natural action of aerobic microbes. Once it is ready, the soil is placed into a curing bin, where it continues to be aerated until the microbial activity slows. Soil is then ready to donate or return to family and friends.
Recompose’s process is intentionally designed to honor nature’s biological rhythms in a controlled environment and typically takes 8 to 12 weeks, with timing that reflects the fact that every body is unique. This careful, intentional approach ensures high-quality soil and demonstrates our commitment to scientific integrity and respect for every individual.
