Rainfall influence and risk analysis on the mural deterioration of Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes, China

A study on the Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its murals and statues, reveals that rainfall significantly impacts mural deterioration by increasing cave humidity. Research indicates that higher rainfall grades and frequency correlate with prolonged periods of high humidity, which exacerbates salt-related damage to the murals. Environmental monitoring suggests that controlling relative humidity below 62% is optimal for preservation, particularly in caves with lower layers, greater openness, and smaller volumes. The study emphasizes the need for targeted environmental monitoring during continuous rainfall periods and highlights the importance of proactive measures to mitigate mural deterioration, offering valuable insights for heritage conservation efforts.

Liu, H., Zhang, Q., Zhang, Z., Guo, Q., Lin, W., & Gao, W. (2023). Rainfall influence and risk analysis on the mural deterioration of Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes, China. Heritage Science, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40494-023-01019-x