Self-organizing maps-based generalized feature set selection for model adaption without reference data for batch process

When fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) techniques combined with multivariate calibration are used to measure the key process features or analyte concentrations during batch process, model adaption is indispensable for maintaining the predictability of a primary calibration model in new secondary batches. Many model adaption methods conforming to the actual application scenario of batch process have been proposed. Here we report on a novel standard-free model adaption method without reference measurement called variable selection strategy with self-organizing maps (VSSOM). It uses self-organizing maps (SOM) to classify the whole spectral variables into multiple classes according to the spectra from primary batch and secondary batch, respectively; and the corresponding primary feature subsets and secondary feature subsets are formed firstly. Secondly, candidate feature subsets without empty elements are generated by operating intersection between any primary feature subsets and any secondary feature subsets. Thirdly, the candidate feature subset with minimum root mean square error of cross-validation (RMSECV) for the primary calibration set is selected as the optimal feature subset. In this manner, the optimal feature subset can be identified from the candidate feature subsets. In other words, VSSOM aims to create a stable and consistent feature subset across different batches provided that it selects better features within the intersection sets between primary feature subsets and any secondary feature subsets. Two batch process datasets (γ-polyglutamic acid fermentation and paeoniflorin extraction) are presented for comparing the VSSOM method with No transfer partial least squares (PLS), boxcar signal transfer (BST), successive projection algorithm (SPA), transfer component analysis (TCA) and domain-invariant iterative partial least squares (DIPALS). Experimental results show that VSSOM has superior performance and comparable prediction performance in all the scenarios. [Display omitted] •A new standard-free model adaption method without reference measurement is proposed.•Aims to select stable and consistent spectral variables across different batches.•A comparative study of the proposed method and 4 classical calibration transfer methods.•Comprehensive Statistical evaluation on the transfer ability of each calibration transfer method.•The experimental results suggest that VSSOM performs the best in all the scenarios.