Output details

Exploratory analysis of excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectra with self-organizing maps as a basis for determination of organic matter removal efficiency at water treatment works

Fluorescence spectroscopy is gaining reputation as a robust means of assessing water treatment works performance. However, the problem of obtaining meaningful information from large, complex fluorescence excitation-emission matrix datasets has limited its uptake. This issue was successfully addressed by the novel development of self-organising maps (SOMs) which enabled discrimination of different treatment works, water types, and performance. This is the first time SOMs have been applied to valuable fluorescence data. The work was supported by an industry-funded contract on application of fluorescence in the water industry. A tutorial paper has been published to disseminate the technique worldwide.