Lowering Barriers to Augmented Reality in Chemistry─Easy Creation of Virtual 3D Molecular Models

• Frieder Loch ^[1] ; Johannes Huwer ^[2] ; Lars-Jochen Thoms ^[2]
  1. [1] Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, Switzerland
  2. [2] Thurgau University of Teacher Education, Switzerland
• Localización: Journal of chemical education, ISSN 0021-9584, Vol. 103, Nº 1, 2026
• Idioma: inglés
• Enlaces
  • Texto completo
• Resumen

  • The integration of Augmented Reality (AR) into chemistry education holds significant promise but is often hindered by the effort associated with creating accurate digital molecular models. We propose two open-source tools that automate the creation of digital molecular models from SMILES strings: an online 3D molecular model generator and a Blender plugin. Two evaluations based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) were carried out. The first qualitative study (n = 11) identified the online generator as intuitive and efficient, while the Blender plugin provided greater flexibility at the cost of higher complexity. The second study (n = 67) reports a quantitative questionnaire based on the TAM and showed high ratings for the online generator. Future developments should particularly address supporting users in working with SMILES notation─e.g., by integrating access to chemical databases, offering graphical molecule builders, or providing explanatory tutorials─while expanding export options toward cross-platform formats (e.g., OBJ, STL), alongside optimizing the Blender plugin’s usability to foster broader classroom adoption.