Editing Embalming (section)

==Chemicals==
{{Main|Embalming chemicals}}

Embalming chemicals are a variety of preservatives, sanitizers, disinfectant agents, and additives used in modern embalming to temporarily delay [[decomposition]] and restore a natural appearance for viewing a body after death. A mixture of these chemicals is known as embalming fluid, and is used to preserve deceased individuals, sometimes only until the funeral, other times indefinitely.

Typical embalming fluid contains a mixture of [[formaldehyde]], [[glutaraldehyde]], [[methanol]], humectants and wetting agents, and other solvents that can be used. The formaldehyde content generally ranges from 5–35%, and the methanol content may range from 9–56%.

Environmentalists sometimes have concerns about embalming because of the harmful chemicals involved and their potential interactions with the environment. Recently, more eco-friendly embalming methods have become available, including formaldehyde-free mixtures of chemicals.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.funeralhelper.org/embalming-information-about-embalming.html|title=Information About Embalming|last=Administrator|website=funeralhelper.org|access-date=2017-02-07|archive-date=8 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170208034105/http://www.funeralhelper.org/embalming-information-about-embalming.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>