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This paper analyzes the application of global sensitivity analysis (GSA) to the improvement of processes using various case studies. First, a brief description of the methods applied is given, and several case studies are examined to show how GSA can be applied to the study to improve the processes. The case studies include the identification of processes; comparisons of the Sobol, E-FAST and Morris GSA methods; a comparison of GSA with local sensitivity analysis; an examination of the effect of uncertainty levels and the type of distribution function on the input factors; and the application of GSA to the improvement of a copper flotation circuit. We conclude that GSA can be a useful tool in the analysis, comparison, design and characterization of separation circuits. In addition, we conclude that using the stage's recoveries of each species as input factors is a suitable choice for the GSA of a flotation plant.

This paper presents a new methodology for the conceptual design of concentration circuits based on the group contribution method. The methodology includes three decision levels: (1) definition and analysis of the problem, (2) synthesis and screening of alternatives, and (3) final design. In this manuscript, the emphasis is on the description of the methodology, justification of the assumptions, and group contribution method. The group contribution models were developed to estimate the global recovery in concentration circuits. The procedure is general and can be applied to any circuit consisting of stages that generate two product streams: concentrate and tail. The developed models can be applied to estimate the recoveries in concentration circuits with a maximum of six stages. The models were fitted using mass balance data from 46 circuits, generating 35 process groups. Case studies were used to illustrate the methodology.