Copper Tool

Copper Value Chain Decision Tool

A transparent modelling framework for evaluating cost, emissions, and decarbonisation pathways across the copper value chain - from ore extraction through to processing, refining, transport, and export.

Explore Open Access Tool

Designed for mine-to-export pathway assessment

The copper tool helps users compare baseline and low-carbon copper supply pathways by integrating techno-economic modelling, emissions accounting, processing assumptions, and logistics scenarios into a single decision framework. As critical minerals markets grow increasingly complex, early-stage capital decisions carry greater risk than ever before. Our tools, built on world-class research in energy and minerals engineering, integrate cost, emissions, and compliance analysis into a single transparent decision framework - reducing risk and accelerating project readiness.
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What the tool evaluates

Ore extraction and concentration

Models mining and concentration costs, energy use, and emissions intensity.

Smelting and anode casting

Evaluates fuel, electricity, oxygen, and processing assumptions for smelting pathways.

Electrorefining

Assesses electricity demand, refining costs, and emissions under different power scenarios.

Rail transport

Compares diesel, hydrogen, battery-electric, and electrified rail options for the transport of refined copper, ore, or concentrate.

Shipping and export pathways

Evaluates maritime transport cost and emissions across export routes and fuel options.

Scenario and policy Analysis

Compares baseline and low-carbon pathways under technology, energy, logistics, and policy assumptions.

Key Outputs

The copper tool converts value-chain assumptions into decision-ready outputs for comparing cost, emissions, and pathway performance.

• Levelised cost by value-chain stage
• Emissions intensity by stage and pathway
• Cost and emissions waterfall breakdowns
• Scenario comparison across low-carbon cases
• Transport and export corridor sensitivity
• Decision-ready outputs for industry and policy users

Use Cases

The copper tool supports early-stage project screening, decarbonisation planning, and export pathway assessment across the copper value chain.

Project Screening

Compare early-stage copper development pathways before major capital decisions are locked in.

Decarbonisation Planning

Identify high-impact technology and energy levers for emissions reduction.

Export Strategy

Evaluate how processing location, transport route, and market destination affect cost and emissions.

Developed by UNSW Green Minerals Team

The copper tool is developed through UNSW research expertise in minerals engineering, techno-economic modelling, emissions accounting, and industrial decarbonisation.

Rasmeet Singh

Lead Developer & PhD Candidate, MERE UNSW

A.Prof Rahman Daiyan

Scientia Associate Professor & ARC DECRA Fellow, MERE UNSW

Dr Muhammad Haider Ali Khan

Research Associate, MERE UNSW

Interested in applying our tools to your project?

Talk to us about project scoping, pathway comparison, research collaboration, or decision-support tool development.