美国初创公司，目标直指EUV核心技术

Core Viewpoint - xLight, a Silicon Valley startup, has successfully raised $40 million to develop a new type of laser that could revolutionize the global chip industry [2][4]. Group 1: Company Overview - xLight aims to create a prototype laser technology based on the same principles used in large particle accelerators at U.S. national laboratories, which will be central to extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines [2]. - The CEO of xLight, Nicholas Kelez, emphasized that this technology is the most expensive tool in wafer fabrication and significantly impacts both wafer costs and production capacity [3]. Group 2: Market Context and Competition - The development of EUV lithography machines has taken decades, with ASML being the sole supplier globally. The U.S. government has been actively preventing the export of EUV machines to China, highlighting the strategic importance of this technology [4]. - Pat Gelsinger, former CEO of Intel and current executive chairman of xLight's board, criticized the decision to allow Cymer, a key player in EUV laser technology, to become a European-controlled company, indicating a need for the U.S. to maintain its competitive edge in this field [4]. Group 3: Funding and Investment - The recent funding round was led by Playground Global, with participation from Boardman Bay Capital Management, Morpheus Ventures, Marvel Capital, and IAG Capital Partners [4].