Handling Transparent Object Rendering Issues in Three.js

The issue you're experiencing is a common problem when rendering transparent objects in 3D graphics. When relying solely on depthTest, transparent objects can render incorrectly because the depth buffer doesn't handle transparency properly.

Solutions to Fix Transparent Clipping Errors

1. Sort transparent objects by distance:

   • Ensure transparent objects are rendered from back to front
   • Add transparent objects to a separate array and sort them before rendering

2. Use the built-in rendering order system:

   JAVASCRIPTCopied
   // Set renderOrder (higher values render last)
   transparentObject.renderOrder = 1;
   opaqueObject.renderOrder = 0;

3. Adjust material settings:

   JAVASCRIPTCopied
   const material = new THREE.MeshBasicMaterial({
     transparent: true,
     opacity: 0.5,
     depthWrite: false // Important for transparent objects
   });

4. Use the WebGLRenderer's depth settings:

   JAVASCRIPTCopied
   // Clear the depth buffer before rendering transparent objects
   renderer.clearDepth();
   // Or disable auto depth clearing and manage it manually
   renderer.autoClearDepth = false;

5. Consider using alpha testing for semi-transparent objects:

   JAVASCRIPTCopied
   material.alphaTest = 0.5; // Pixels with alpha < 0.5 won't be rendered

The most effective approach is usually a combination of proper sorting (either manual or using renderOrder), setting depthWrite: false on transparent materials, and carefully managing the rendering order of your scene elements.