A Study on Protocols of Cross-Chain Data Synchronization for Permission Blockchain for Construction Management

Abstract

The construction industry is encountering management issues, such as low efficiency, inadequate regulation and enforcement, absence of good coordination and knowledge sharing, and ineffective billing practices. Blockchain is also gaining momentum as a part of the digital transformation in the construction area and response to various challenges. Since various blockchain implementations have different specifications for distributed ledger functionality (e.g., high throughput, scalability), blockchains currently function as independent knowledge islands that cannot access external data or conduct transactions on their own. Such information silos must be bridged to create more stable blockchain applications. This research investigates data synchronization protocols for cross-chain technologies in construction blockchain. It screens the most suitable blockchain frameworks for use in the construction industry to establish a consistent approach to support their application in construction blockchain. Finally, a cross-chain data interaction protocol for blockchain-based supply chain and IFC chain construction is proposed.