IOR - Index of Refraction

IOR - Index of Refraction

by Studio Orb, LLC

177 ratings
5 reviews
$0.99

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • January 26, 2009
  • April 26, 2026
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About

This reference app provides precise Index of Refraction values for over 250 materials, aiding 3D artists, engineers, and students. It features an interactive visualizer to demonstrate optical principles and a searchable library of scientific data.

250+ searchable materials
Interactive optical visualizer
Snell's Law, Fresnel Reflectance, Brewster's Angle, TIR, Dispersion
Physics and optics theory section
Favorites and history
Optimized for iPad and iPhone
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What's New in IOR

2.1

April 26, 2026

It's an all-new app! A long awaited update from the initial version in 2009.

User reviews

Excellent resource

Just needs search or at least the letter list on the right side of the screen while scrolling. With those additions I'd happily pay a buck or two for this.

Simple, Useful

This app has a nice list of indicies. My only request would be a search function.

Sweet

This will come in handy when using Mental ray. Thanks!

Great for nde (ndt)

Cool little app. If you're in the nondestructive testing field it's nice to have. It would be cool if you could depict the refraction between two materials (besides the orb). Not complaining though.

Easy to use!!!!!

This is an Excellent application and thanks for offering it for free!

FAQ

What is the Index of Refraction (IOR) for?

The Index of Refraction is a number that describes how much light bends when it passes from one medium to another. This value is crucial for creating physically accurate materials in 3D rendering, distinguishing between materials like glass, water, or diamond.

How many materials are included in IOR?

IOR includes over 250 materials, covering gems, glass, metals, liquids, biological tissue, crystals, polymers, and gases. These values are cross-referenced against published scientific sources like NIST and academic literature.

Can I see how light bends with IOR?

Yes, IOR features an interactive optical visualizer. You can adjust IOR and angle sliders to see how light bends in real time, demonstrating principles like Snell's Law, Fresnel Reflectance, Brewster's Angle, and Total Internal Reflection.

Does IOR explain the theory behind light bending?

Yes, the app has a dedicated Theory section that explains optics fundamentals such as Snell's Law, Fresnel equations, Brewster's Angle, and Total Internal Reflection. It includes interactive visualizers, equations, and curated video references.

Is IOR useful for 3D artists?

IOR is specifically built for 3D artists using renderers like Blender, Maya, Arnold, V-Ray, and Octane. It provides exact IOR values needed for physically accurate materials, eliminating guesswork and the need for constant online searches.

How much does IOR cost?

IOR is a paid application, available for $0.99. This one-time purchase grants access to all its features and data.

Does IOR have ads?

No, IOR is ad-free. As a paid application, it does not contain any advertisements, providing an uninterrupted user experience.

What devices does IOR support?

IOR is optimized for both iPhone and iPad, supporting both portrait and landscape orientations. It is compatible with devices running iOS.