Solution of inverse radiative transfer problems in two-layer participating media with differential evolution

Abstract

In the present work the differential evolution approach (DE) is used for the estimation of radiative properties in two-layer participating media. This physical phenomenon is modelled by an integro-differential equation known as the Boltzmann equation. A review of the optimization technique used is presented. The direct radiative transfer problem is solved by using the collocation method. Then, case studies are presented aimed at illustrating the efficiency of the methodology used in the treatment of an inverse problem of radiative transfer. The results obtained from the solution of the inverse problem are compared with those obtained from a hybridization of simulated annealing and Levenberg–Marquardt methods. The preliminary results indicate that the proposed approach characterizes a promising methodology for the present type of inverse problem.