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What is plastination?

Plastination is a unique technique for preserving biological tissue, invented by Gunther von Hagens. It involves replacing the body's water and fats with reactive plastics like silicone, which then harden. This process stops decay and allows specimens to be displayed without special conditions, offering a durable and detailed look inside the human body, as seen in his Body Worlds exhibitions.

Stories that explain this

Plastination inventor Gunther von Hagens, Body Worlds creator, has died

Related explainers

The Body Worlds impact Who was Gunther von Hagens? His early life and studies? Why preserve human bodies? Why do plates move? Why are plants important?

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