Baseline subtraction using robust local regression estimation

A technique entitled robust baseline estimation is introduced, which uses techniques of robust local regression to estimate baselines in spectra that consist of sharp features superimposed upon a continuous, slowly varying baseline. The technique is applied to synthetic spectra, to evaluate its capabilities, and to laser-induced fluorescence spectra of OH (produced from the reaction of ozone with hydrogen atoms). The latter example is a particularly challenging case for baseline estimation because the experimental noise Varies as a function of frequency. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.