Readers' Forum
Chemical disposal of the dead
In the absence of scavenger birds we have been using non-functional solar panels in Bombay for the disposal of the dead. I have worked on a project of disposing of our kith and kin with dignity through the chemical way which the next batch of trustees in this election year must pledge to introduce before they receive our votes.
Two chemicals can help, provided the Bombay Parsi Punchayet, custodians of Doongerwadi, obtain special permission for their use: potassium hydroxide (KOH) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The former is an inorganic compound also called caustic potash. Along with sodium hydroxide, this colorless solid serves as a dessicant. It does not dehydrate readily and at high temperature at a concentration higher than two percent is corrosive. It hastens the decomposition of soft tissues in both animals and humans, leaving behind only bones since it has corrosive properties. By this process the human body is turned into liquid and not ashes. For an average adult it takes two to five hours for the completion of the process. It is readily available and safe for the handlers using special equipment. Steel containers with galvanized tin and lids will suffice for the process.
The present board of trustees could have found the solution but in all probability were not interested. I hope and trust the community will now elect trustees who have concern for such matters as disposal of the dead with dignity.
Dr SYRUS DARVISH IRANI
syrus_irani@hotmail.com
Two chemicals can help, provided the Bombay Parsi Punchayet, custodians of Doongerwadi, obtain special permission for their use: potassium hydroxide (KOH) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The former is an inorganic compound also called caustic potash. Along with sodium hydroxide, this colorless solid serves as a dessicant. It does not dehydrate readily and at high temperature at a concentration higher than two percent is corrosive. It hastens the decomposition of soft tissues in both animals and humans, leaving behind only bones since it has corrosive properties. By this process the human body is turned into liquid and not ashes. For an average adult it takes two to five hours for the completion of the process. It is readily available and safe for the handlers using special equipment. Steel containers with galvanized tin and lids will suffice for the process.
The present board of trustees could have found the solution but in all probability were not interested. I hope and trust the community will now elect trustees who have concern for such matters as disposal of the dead with dignity.
Dr SYRUS DARVISH IRANI
syrus_irani@hotmail.com
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