Petroglyphs and Pictographs

Although pictographs and petroglyphs have withstood hundreds, perhaps thousands of years of exposure, modern pollutants and vandalism, coupled with natural elements, have accelerated their destruction. Recently, scientists have used microscopic mineral sampling to measure the types of chemical elements found in pictograph pigments. Additionally, studies have included the use of diversional watersheds, shelters, and application of protective adhesives to prevent rock art erosion. The continuing study of chemical compositions and rates of panel decay could one day lead to the discovery of a proper means by which to preserve these features indefinitely.