What is Boundless (ZKC)?

Deep Dive

1. Purpose & Value Proposition

Boundless addresses blockchain scalability by decoupling computation from consensus. Developers submit proof requests to a decentralized network of provers, who generate ZK proofs that compress complex computations into lightweight, on-chain verifiable data. This allows blockchains to scale horizontally—adding more provers increases network capacity, similar to internet infrastructure (Boundless Docs).

Key use cases include:
- Rollups: Reducing finality times from days to hours via ZK fraud proofs.
- Cross-Chain Apps: Enabling trustless state reads/writes across Ethereum, Bitcoin, and Solana.

2. Technology & Architecture

Boundless leverages a RISC-V zkVM, allowing developers to write proofs in Rust or Solidity without custom circuits. Its architecture includes:
- Steel: A ZK coprocessor for EVM chains, enabling multi-block computations at fixed gas costs.
- OP Kailua: Upgrades Optimistic Rollups with hybrid ZK proofs for faster finality.
Provers compete in an open market, with rewards tied to proof complexity under PoVW, ensuring cost efficiency and censorship resistance (Mainnet Launch).

3. Tokenomics & Governance

ZKC (10 billion max supply) serves three core functions:
- Collateral: Provers stake ZKC to participate, with slashing for faulty proofs.
- Rewards: Provers earn ZKC based on work done, with inflation starting at 7% (Year 1) and tapering to 3% (Year 8+).
- Governance: Token holders vote on protocol upgrades and fee structures.
Initial circulation is 20.09%, with 1.5% airdropped to BNB holders via Binance (Binance Research).

Conclusion

Boundless reimagines blockchain scalability by treating ZK proofs as a decentralized resource, secured by a token-incentivized network. Its cross-chain focus positions it as connective tissue for a multi-ecosystem future. A critical question remains: Can its proof marketplace achieve sustainable demand as adoption grows?