China has achieved large-scale production of polyolefin elastomer (POE) at Dushanzi Petrochemical in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, reducing reliance on imports of key materials for industries such as photovoltaics.

Dubbed "industrial gold," POE combines the processability of plastic with the elasticity of rubber, enhances solar module efficiency and extends panel lifespan to over 30 years. 

The self-developed gas-phase polymerization process saves 40 percent of energy compared to international methods, which is equivalent to the annual electricity use of 120,000 households.

By 2026, China's POE capacity is expected to exceed 300,000 tonnes, securing the supply chain for emerging industries like new energy.