LG Chem and ZEISS, known for expertise in optics and photonics, announced their strategic alliance that stands for robust, sustainable, and innovative photopolymer film supply on industrial scale for Holographic Windshield Displays (HWDs) in automotive.

Vice President Ko Kyung-deok (left), Head of Electronics Materials Business Unit of LG Chem, and Stephan Höfer, SVP and Head of Business Development and Marketing of ZEISS Microoptics, at the signing ceremony held at LG Chem’s Yeouido Twin Towers.

In automotive, photopolymers are a critical component for HWDs. HWDs represent the next generation display technology that transforms windshield into a transparent display, capable of showing driving information, navigation, and entertainment. It also enables multi-display functionality across different areas of the windshield, offering drivers and passengers customized information.

Under the agreement, LG Chem will supply photopolymer films within the ZEISS Microoptics Enabling Ecosystem to support integration into automotive windshields and deliver HWD functionality. The first serial production launch for automotive OEMs targets an SOP in 2029.

“With LG Chem at our side, the ZEISS Microoptics Enabling Ecosystem will deliver reliable, advanced photopolymers at scale for transparent displays in automotive. By focusing together on innovation, technical standards, and supply continuity, we help customers tackle the toughest optical challenges in automotive and beyond,” said Dr. Viktor Schütz, VP and Head of Partnership Management at ZEISS Microoptics.

Strengthening supply chain and co-develop innovations

The partners combine their strengths to anchor a stable material supply for the upcoming new industry “Holography”. Applications such as in mobility (including solutions like automotive displays), holographic sensor systems, and a variety of consumer technologies can rely on continuous availability.

By coordinating supply chain integration and inventory management, both companies keep today’s automotive OEM programs running and safeguard future serial production worldwide, including for automotive holographic windshield displays.

The partnership goes beyond basic material delivery. LG Chem develops photopolymers based on a co-development approach, aligned with ZEISS’ expertise in holography and precise definition of application needs. As customer requirements and markets change, both companies quickly adjust development priorities to respond to customer needs and market trends.

“Our partnership with ZEISS is a strategic collaboration aimed at securing competitiveness based on optical technologies, beyond mere material supply. LG Chem will lead the innovation of automotive displays with differentiated optical material technologies,” said Shin Hak-cheol, CEO of LG Chem.

Chemical expert and Microoptics expert join hands

LG Chem brings decades of high-quality chemical development and production to the table and leverages expertise in polymer synthesis, liquid formulation, and precision coating, while ZEISS draws on its microoptics and holography expertise and knowledge of high-quality optical standards and products.

LG Chem has achieved high optical efficiency and excellent thermal stability in its photopolymer films, backed by over 150 patents.

Both companies ensure that every photopolymer film reaches ambitious targets for performance, reliability, and regulatory conformity. LG Chem places emphasis on responsible sourcing and energy-efficient manufacturing processes. ZEISS ensures traceability and transparency within the global ZEISS Microoptics Enabling Ecosystem for the upcoming Holography industry.