ZKsync has unveiled its new “elastic chain” architecture, marking a significant transition from a singular ZK rollup chain to a network of interoperable chains. This development is part of the ZKsync 3.0 roadmap and is aimed at enhancing the network’s scalability and user experience.
Elastic Chain Architecture
Layer 2 developer ZKsync has rolled out its v24 upgrade, which went live on June 7, 2024. This upgrade transitions ZKsync from a singular zero-knowledge (ZK) rollup chain to an “elastic chain” architecture. This new design envisions a network of multiple ZK chains that are natively interoperable and provide a unified user experience.
Key features of the elastic chain architecture include:
- Native Interoperability: The architecture allows for seamless operation across multiple ZK chains without the need for network switching or manual asset bridging.
- Unified User Experience: Transactions require only a single wallet confirmation, making the process intuitive for users.
- Token Vault: The reconfiguration of ZKsync’s native bridge into a token vault aims to improve connectivity among the expanding array of ZK chains.
Airdrop and Token Distribution
Earlier, ZKsync distributed an airdrop of 3.675 billion ZK tokens to early users of its Ethereum Layer 2 network. This airdrop represents 17.5% of the ZK token’s total supply of 21 billion tokens.
Multi-Chain Ecosystem
The elastic chain architecture aims to unify a multi-chain ecosystem. Starting with the ZKsync Era, the project’s flagship rollup, it will serve as the foundational layer of the elastic chain ecosystem. By the end of 2024, the network is expected to encompass over 20 chains developed using the ZK Stack software kit. Notable projects include Lens Protocol, QuarkID, PlayFi, GRVT, Cronos zkEVM, and Nodle.
The concept, first introduced by ZKsync developers at the 2022 SmartCon event, focuses on enhancing proof aggregation and cross-chain interoperability through the ZK Stack.
Simplified User Interaction
For users, the elastic chain aims to present a coherent multi-chain environment that operates intuitively as one entity. The Ethereum Multi-Chain Address (EMCA) standard will be introduced to simplify address identification across various chains by abstracting specific chain details from users.
The introduction of the elastic chain architecture as part of the ZKsync 3.0 roadmap represents a significant advancement in the Layer 2 scaling solution, aiming to enhance scalability, interoperability, and user experience across the network.
