Bluzelle

Bluzelle is building a blockchain based database service for distributed applications (DApps). While other projects focus on general file storage Bluzelle plans to focus on providing DApps with fast and scalable access to databases. Users can provide excess storage and computing power to DApp developers using the native BNT token. Those that provide their storage and computing are reffered to as “producers” while the DApp developers act as “consumers.” The project expects potential users of the service to include prediction markets, exchange protocols, and data streaming networks built on blockchain technology.

Data uploaded by consumers is stored across clusters, or “swarms”, of nodes, which are spread out in multiple geographies. This helps to reduce the risk of a single point of failure due to security breaches, human interference, or natural disasters. Distributed nodes also offer potential performance increases by making data locally accessible when running a DApp.

Producers are required to stake BNT tokens proportional to the services they provide as a guarantee of reliable service. If a producer does not perform tasks as advertised, the consumer will receive a refund for the service they paid for. Bluzelle also tracks reliability through a “karma index”, which is tied to a user’s Ethereum address. Producers that provide inadequate service, lose their stake and receive a reduction in their karma index. More reputable producers are able to charge higher fees for their services.

Bluzelle uses a two token model which includes the ERC20 based BLZ token, that is tradable on cryptoasset exchanges, and the BNT token, which is unique to the network. BNT tokens are used as payment for service and as a guarantee of reliability. The team chose to use a native token in order to provide faster transactions than currently possible on Ethereum while removing mining fees for transactions. Token holders will be able to convert between BLZ and BNT tokens through the Bluzelle token gateway.