Application of artificial neural networks to the real-time operation of conducting polymer sensors: a pattern recognition approach

An artificial neural network (ANN)-based pattern recognition method is adopted for conducting polymer (CP) sensors. The method is capable of creating different patterns and models based on an on-line data collection from a multichannel analog/digital (AD) device. The flow of information is directed from the surface of the CP electrode into an AD device which is connected to an ANN-trained computer. The ANN software (Turbo Neuron) used in this study accepts the data as its inputs and creates the best possible patterns, based on pre-selected parameters, to classify the type of ions existing in the operational environment. The method is recommended to be used in the field of CPs where passive analytical methods have not been successful in addressing reusability of the CP electrodes.