Kevin White

Principal Scientist, Exponent


Dr. Kevin White has been involved with research, development and analysis of electrochemical energy conversion systems for the past 25 years. His focus over the last 17 years at Exponent has been on the design, development, manufacturing, safety, performance and failure analysis of commercial battery systems with emphasis on lithium-ion systems. Dr. White has extensive experience consulting across multiple industries utilizing small and large format batteries including the consumer electronics, electrified clothing, medical device, industrial equipment, power tool, automotive and aerospace industries. He has developed particular experience with complex battery failure analysis problems through direct involvement with several high profile incidents including leading Exponent’s efforts on behalf of Samsung for the 2017 Note7 recall. Dr. White has authored and co-authored numerous articles and book chapters on the topic of advanced batteries and is active in the battery research and development community.  Currently, he is a Principal Scientist in Exponent’s Polymer Sciences and Materials Chemistry practice where he leads a team of battery experts committed to improving the safety, performance and reliability of client’s battery systems. 

Quantifying Lithium-ion Battery Explosion Risk


The risks associated with thermal runaway of lithium-ion systems are relatively well know but less is known about the risk of explosion when flammable gases generated by thermal runaway. This presentation will explore novel methods for quantifying this explosion risk, enabling the application of more robust mitigations.