Adipocire

Adipocire, also known as grave wax or mortuary wax, is a substance that forms when a human or animal body is buried in certain conditions. It is a waxy, soap-like material that is created when the fatty tissue in the body undergoes a process of saponification, which involves the breakdown of fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

Adipocire can form in environments where there is a lack of oxygen, such as in soil that is waterlogged or in airtight containers, and where there is a high level of bacteria that can break down the fatty tissue. It is typically white or yellowish in color and can have a greasy or oily texture.

Adipocire has been used in the past for various purposes, such as making candles or preserving anatomical specimens for medical study. It is also sometimes found in forensic investigations, where it can provide clues about the conditions in which a body was buried or stored.