瞄准EUV关键技术！美政府押注激光初创公司xLight：最高1.5亿美元换取最大股东地位

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. government is intensifying its efforts to reshape the advanced semiconductor manufacturing supply chain by investing in critical technology sectors, specifically targeting laser technology for extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography [1][2]. Investment Details - The Trump administration has decided to invest up to $150 million in the laser chip startup xLight, marking the first investment from the CHIPS & Science Act during Trump's second term [1]. - The U.S. Department of Commerce is expected to become the largest shareholder in xLight as part of this investment agreement [1]. xLight's Technology and Goals - xLight aims to develop a Free Electron Laser that utilizes technology derived from particle accelerators to produce a more stable and precise EUV light source with lower energy consumption [2]. - The company is targeting advancements down to a 2-nanometer wavelength, which could significantly enhance chip manufacturing precision and extend the viability of Moore's Law [2]. - xLight's new technology is projected to improve wafer processing efficiency by 30% to 40% while substantially reducing energy consumption [2]. Leadership and Funding - Former Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger has joined xLight as the executive chairman of the board, viewing this project as a personal mission to revive Moore's Law [2][4]. - xLight recently secured $40 million in funding, including from Playground Global, where Gelsinger is a partner [4]. Government Strategy and Market Reactions - The direct investment strategy by the government has sparked criticism, with some market participants labeling it as "state capitalism" that may unfairly favor certain companies [5]. - U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick defended the approach, emphasizing the need to stimulate key industry development and attract private sector partners [6]. - The U.S. is also encouraging more domestic semiconductor challengers, with companies like Substrate announcing $100 million in funding to develop an EUV alternative [6]. Future Implications - A new "technological arms race" surrounding EUV lithography and its core components is anticipated, with xLight's ability to transition from laboratory to production being a crucial factor in the evolution of the semiconductor landscape [7].