Salt efflorescence and blistering are two kinds of deterioration in Mogao cave murals caused by soluble salts.This study analyzes the types and distribution of soluble salts in Mogao cave 196 by analyzing samples using ion chromatography(IC), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectrometry(SEM-EDS), and X-ray diffraction(XRD). The results show that there is a high concentration of soluble salt in the west wall, a moderate concentration in the north and south walls, and a low level of salt in the east wall. The majority of the deterioration suffered by murals results from NaCl while a small amount of Na2 SO4 can be detected in some areas as well. The results of humidity monitoring detection show that the relative moisture level inside the cave increases to 73% during the rainy season, which is above the warning value for the environmental humidity of the Mogao caves. The blistering in the caves is caused by improper mixing of water with lime mortar during early restoration work. The phenomena of degeneration visible at the bottom of the north wall in the front chamber was mainly caused by soluble salt Na2 SO4, while the damage in the upper areas was mostly caused by animals or insects digging holes. This research aims to provide a better understanding of the types and distribution of soluble salts in the Mogao caves in order to provide the basis of information necessary for conservation and restoration of the murals in cave 196
