If you know the the responses to downstream processes, then some doing Monte Carlo simulation/RSM modelling for various effects to observe the downstream impact would be viable. If have a pre-existing database the use of ANN would be a viable option. My team successfully modelled the impacts of various operational parameters to observe downstream performance impact for advanced oxidation processes for wastewater treatment. refer to the link: 10.1021/acsestwater.0c00192

Although it's a different field, optimisation problems can be addressed through various modelling techniques. Hope this helps :)