Improved Marquardt Algorithm for Training Neural Networks for Chemical Process Modeling

Back-propagation (BP) artificial neural networks have been widely used to model chemical processes. BP networks are often trained using the generalized delta-rule (GDR) algorithm but application of such networks is limited because of the low convergent speed of the algorithm. This paper presents a new algorithm incorporating the Marquardt algorithm into the BP algorithm for training feedforward BP neural networks. The new algorithm was tested with several case studies and used to model the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) of stabilizer gasoline. The new algorithm has faster convergence and is much more efficient than the GDR algorithm.