Key Features

Multi Layer Structure

Pastel Chain

The Pastel Network begins with the Pastel Chain, a layer-1 blockchain that achieves maximum security, reliability, and decentralization. Cryptographic innovations such as zero-knowledge proofs (zk-SNARKs) allow for provably secure transactions that are validated by the network.

Smart-Ticket System

A lightweight, flexible system of a higher-level series of tickets is leveraged to allow information to be written to and stored on the blockchain as a means of performing the necessary NFT-related information on the network.

SuperNodes

SuperNodes form the backbone of the Pastel Network. SuperNodes are a scalable layer of high-powered instances connected to Pastel Chain that are responsible for validating NFT transactions, performing various functions, and governing the broader network.

Sense Protocol

Sense is a lightweight, near-duplicate NFT detection protocol run by SuperNodes. Sense assesses the relative rareness of a given NFT against near-duplicate data.

The software leverages deep learning models to transform each NFT into a multi-dimensional fixed list of numbers (the ‘NFT fingerprint vector’). It then assesses the likelihood that a given fingerprint is a duplicate versus the database of existing fingerprints. The output — the Relative Rareness score— is a number between 0% (i.e., the NFT is identical to a previously registered NFT) to 100% (i.e., the NFT is completely unique).

Cascade Protocol

Cascade is a storage-layer maintained by SuperNodes. Leveraging the RaptorQ fountain code algorithm, Cascade partitions NFT metadata into a series of redundant chunks which contain random fragments of the combined file. Chunks are distributed redundantly across participating SuperNodes running on the network using the Kademlia DHT algorithm.

No complex or centralized system for deciding which node is responsible for which chunk, no iteration through SuperNodes to find one with the relevant chunk, and no complicated logic for handling chunk re-allocation in the case of SuperNodes entering and leaving the network.