Secrets of the Soil: Preserving the Terracotta Warriors

Preserving the Terracotta Warriors poses significant challenges due to their age and the materials used in their construction. Modern scientific techniques such as infrared scanning, 3D imaging, and non-invasive mineral analysis are employed to study and preserve the figures. These methods help in understanding the original polychromy of the warriors and in monitoring the degradation processes affecting the clay and pigments.

Conservationists face challenges like humidity control, light exposure, and physical stresses that could further degrade the statues. Innovative materials such as nanostructured layers are being tested to protect the paint and clay from these elements. The ongoing preservation efforts are as much about understanding the past technologies as they are about applying the future ones to conserve this world heritage site.

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