The Cultural Heritage Preservation and Natural Dyes Laboratory (DATU) was established in 2010 as a project by the Turkish Cultural Foundation (TCF). In 2015, DATU became an independent entity that provides a range of laboratory services, while continuing its collaboration with TCF in the area of cultural preservation. DATU also cooperates with a variety of institutions and organizations that produce original projects and share similar objectives.

In 2016, DATU gained accreditation with IAF (International Accrediation Forum) and is the only laboratory in Turkey accredited by TURKAK (Turkish Accreditation Agency), a member of ILAC (International Loboratory Accrediation Cooperation) and EA (European Cooperation for Accrediation).

The DATU Laboratory provides analytical services, technical and scientific support, as well as certifications. The analytical services of DATU help restoration and conservation works of historical and archaeological objects. DATU also provides comprehensive analysis and certification of natural dyed textiles and other material. DATU also provides certification in these two areas.

The Cultural Heritage Preservation and Natural Dyes Laboratory has the world's richest collections of natural dye sources and works on introducing and spreading the use of natural dyes in textile production in Turkey. For this purpose, it researches and records traditional natural dyeing recipes, and works to develop new products based on contemporary science and technology.