When processing cremated remains, crematory operators follow a series of steps to attempt to collect and separate as much non-organic material away from the remains as possible. The purpose of separating out metals is to ensure the remains, given to the family, are clear of any non-organic contaminants.metal or foreign materials. Non-Organic waste recovered in the cremation process occurs both pre and post-cremation and includes, but is not limited to: casket hardware, orthopedic and dental implants, pacemakers and defibrillators. There are many different techniques and methods to accomplish this but almost all of them are flawed. Poor technique at the processing station will result in contaminated remains, increased safety risk and significantly reduced implant recycling proceeds. 

All of the metal materials separated must be disposed of in accordance with state and federal standards. The best disposal method is to securely ship this material to a trusted refinery to be melted down and professionally analyzed.

The value of implant recycling is not only environmental, a point we will further expand on shortly; but there is also significant monetary value, especially in the dental material. Precious metals like gold and palladium which are abundant in dental scrap metals have recently been trading near $2,000 per ounce. By contrast, it would take over 1000 pounds of metal from casket hardware to equal the value of precious metal found in one typical dental crown.

Organizations like CANA (Cremation Association of North America) and ICCFA (International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association) support and encourage medical implant recycling, understanding not only the environmental benefit, but also acknowledging that implant recycling returns a significant value that can be used for capital improvements or charitable donations.