Mitsui Chemicals introduces high-index Diffrar™ polymer wafers for AR glasses, offering wider FOV, enhanced durability, lightweight design, and improved manufacturing flexibility.
Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. has taken a major step forward in advancing optical materials for next-generation wearable devices with the development of its Diffrar™ optical polymer wafers, designed specifically for waveguides used in augmented reality (AR) glasses. As the global market for augmented and virtual reality continues to grow rapidly, demand is rising for materials that can deliver superior visual clarity, durability, and comfort. Mitsui Chemicals aims to address this demand by introducing a breakthrough technology that could significantly enhance the performance and usability of AR eyewear.
The company has successfully created the world’s first* 12-inch optical polymer wafers engineered for AR glasses, featuring exceptionally high refractive indices of 1.67 and 1.74. These wafers stand out because they combine high-precision optical characteristics with the processing advantages of advanced polymers. Achieving such high refractive indices—traditionally associated with glass materials—marks a substantial innovation in the AR optics space, where performance and weight reduction are equally important.
One of the primary features of Diffrar™ polymer wafers is their high refractive index paired with excellent flatness, both essential requirements for AR waveguides. These characteristics allow AR glasses to project digital images and information with greater clarity and to offer users a wider Field of View (FOV), which is increasingly important for immersive AR experiences. As AR applications expand across consumer electronics, industrial tools, medical devices, and enterprise solutions, improved FOV capabilities can enhance usability and realism.
In addition to optical performance, Mitsui Chemicals emphasizes durability and user comfort. The proprietary polymer used in Diffrar™ enables superior impact resistance, making the wafers significantly tougher and safer than glass. This added durability reduces the risk of damage during everyday use, while the lightweight nature of the polymer contributes to more comfortable wear over long periods—an essential factor for AR glasses intended for work, training, entertainment, or continuous-use settings.
The Diffrar™ product lineup includes wafers with refractive indices of 1.67 and 1.74, available in multiple sizes, including 6-inch (for testing), 8-inch (200mm), and 12-inch (300mm) formats. This range provides optical designers and manufacturers with greater flexibility and helps streamline production processes by supporting a variety of design and fabrication requirements. Larger wafer sizes also potentially improve manufacturing efficiency, allowing companies to scale their AR hardware development more effectively.
Mitsui Chemicals plans to showcase these newly developed Diffrar™ optical polymer wafers at the SPIE Photonics West – AR/VR/MR Expo in San Francisco, California, scheduled for January 20–22, 2026. This global event will offer industry professionals an opportunity to evaluate the technology firsthand and explore its potential applications across the rapidly evolving AR ecosystem.
The name Diffrar™ reflects its core purpose and technological identity. It is derived from the word “diffraction” and the abbreviation “AR.” The logo’s “D” symbolizes a door opening to new technological possibilities, representing Mitsui Chemicals’ commitment to supporting innovation and enabling customers to unlock fresh opportunities through advanced optical materials.
