In order to explore the feasibility of using infrared thermal imaging technology to detect deterioration of rock paintings,the Huashan rock painting,in Guangxi province,were examined.This technique revealed some typical deterioration diseases such as overgrowth by the stalactites,surface stripping and water penetration,can be detected effectively.Furthermore,the optimal time for detection of different deterioration diseases varies.For stalactite overgrowth the early morning or evening is better,while for stripping, the afternoon is better.Compared with the detection using visible light,the infrared thermal imaging has its own special advantages.