Sarco

The Sarco euthanasia capsule was created by Philip Nitschke to provide a lawful, drug-free, de-medicalised means of a peaceful passing at a time of one’s choosing.

The name is derived from the word ‘sarcophagus’, meaning above ground crypt.

No specialised medical skills or experience are required.

In time, and with the help of a large-scale 3D printer, a person will be able to print their own. Exit expects to make the 3D-print plans available open source.

The device is 3D-printed and consists of a capsule and a base.

The base houses the generator. Access to the generator is via a slide-drawer in the rear of the structure.

The gas transfer from the base to the capsule is at the front.

The generator can be prepared up to 24 hours before use.

Upon activation, nitrogen gas lowers the level of oxygen within the capsule.

Within 30 seconds, the oxygen concentration drops from 21% (in normal air) to <0.5%.

The Sarco creates a hypoxic/ hypocapnic (low oxygen, low carbon dioxide) environment within the capsule.

At these extremely low oxygen levels, a person inside will loose consciousness almost immediately. Death will follow soon after.

Different Sarco Models

The technology underpinning the device has broader application than the 3D-printed version.

For example, one idea is the Sarco C, or ‘Sarco Coffin’.

This model makes use of a simple, mail-order American-style coffin (split lid).

If the top half-coffin lid is replaced with a transparent cover, the Sarco generator can be used to create a hypoxic/ hypocapnic (low oxygen, low carbon dioxide) environment.

This would allow the user to die in their own coffin. The Sarco Coffin is now in production in the Netherlands.