We present a combination of convolutional
neural network (CNN)
framework and fast MIR (mid-infrared spectroscopy) for classifying
different types of dark plastic materials that are commonly found
in mixed plastic waste (MPW) streams. Dark plastic materials present
challenges in fast identification because of the low signal-to-noise
ratio. The proposed CNN architecture (which we call PlasticNet) can
reach an overall classification accuracy of 100% and can identify
the constituent materials in a multiplastic blend with 100% accuracy.
The fast MIR system can collect spectral data at a rate up to 400
Hz, and the CNN model can reach prediction speeds of 8200 Hz. Therefore,
this method provides an avenue to be able to characterize MPW in a
real-time high-throughput manner.
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