The efficiency of copper ore comminution: A thermodynamic exergy analysis

•Implementation of a minimum comminution work index based on the uniaxial compression testing of mineral ore.•Obtain a Hukki-Morrell fitted relationship and determine comminution work of a laboratory sized dry ball mill.•Compare limitations when using the Hukki-Morrell fitted model against an inertial energy estimation.•Perform an exergy analysis for comminution work in a laboratory sized dry ball mill.