Exponent has a wide range of expertise in materials chemistry and macromolecular science. Our expertise in materials chemistry includes electrochemistry, plasma chemistry, transport properties, nanomaterials, MEMS, thin film technologies, battery science, and the optimization of high value chemically-based processes. Our engineers and scientists solve problems involving various battery cell technologies, semiconductors, metal films, dielectrics, polymers, materials processing, catalysis, trace contaminant identification, pharmaceutical process chemistry, and interfacial chemistry.
Complex manufacturing processes can involve dozens of individual steps and a wide range of materials, from adhesives suitable for drug delivery to inorganic salts for battery electrolytes. Control of these processes for optimum performance and maximum yield requires an in-depth understanding of the interaction between individual components as well as potential avenues for contamination and product nonconformance.
Exponent’s consultants are experienced with manufacturing control and supply chain issues across a variety of industries from consumer electronics and battery systems to regulated products such as pharmaceuticals and medical devices. Our facilities, with state-of-the-art materials characterization capabilities, are often employed in root cause investigations, material compatibility assessments, intellectual property infringement investigations, and non-standardized product testing protocols for FDA submission and survivability in aggressive end use scenarios.
Examples of product investigations and issues:
- Selection, performance assessment, failure analysis, and troubleshooting of materials for batteries from a wide range of functional chemistries
- Root cause analysis for transdermal drug-in-adhesive manufacturing
- Design, development, and integration of supply chains in Class 100+ cleanroom facilities
- Product development support for combination medical devices and pharmaceuticals
- Product development support for advanced battery systems
- Development and validation of highly customized Quality Assurance (QA) methods for medical device, pharmaceutical and battery manufacturing
- Surface chemistry and susceptibility to contamination (e.g., fingerprints)
- Identification of contamination sources and recommended processes to mitigate presence of foreign contaminants on products.