Conservation efforts in places like Dunhuang have been hindered by the unpredictable effects of various natural and environmental factors on cultural relics.

Over the years, Chinese research institutions such as Dunhuang Research Academy have conducted in-depth research on the mechanism of damage to grottoes and murals, but efforts to protect against the influence of environmental factors were limited.

With these laboratories now in service, heritage conservation can move from rescuing relics to actively preventing their deterioration.

"The laboratory will not only serve in the field of cultural relics protection by the Dunhuang Research Academy, but also conduct experiments needed for cultural relics protection across the country," said Zhao.