This undated photo shows a proton exchange membrane on its production line, in Shandong province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"Don't underestimate this thin membrane. Though it looks just like our household plastic wrap, it is as invaluable as gold," said Wang Zhenhua, deputy general manager of Shandong Dongyue Future Hydrogen Energy Materials Co Ltd.

A proton exchange membrane (PEM) works as a core component for hydrogen power generation, Wang added.