Ardor is a multichain blockchain platform featuring a unique parent-child chain architecture. This structure provides scalability, security, and interoperability, with the parent Ardor chain overseeing network security and transaction processing, while the child chains allow for customizable and interoperable blockchains aimed at various business applications.
Ardor employs a parent-child chain model, where the main blockchain (parent chain) ensures security and efficient processing of transactions. Multiple child chains, each with their own native tokens and functionalities, handle operational tasks. Transactions from the child chains are grouped into a single transaction on the parent chain through a process called bundling, thus ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Ardor's consensus is maintained through a Proof of Stake (PoS) mechanism, specifically utilizing the NXT PoS algorithm.
Ardor offers a versatile platform suitable for diverse applications across industries. Key use cases include supply chain management, asset management, and decentralised applications (dApps). It is employed in projects like VesselChain for maritime supply chain compliance and the EU-funded Senator Project for urban planning logistics. Businesses can leverage Ardor's child chains for creating equity trading platforms or tokenizing various assets, supporting applications like gaming, finance, and infrastructure with enhanced scalability and interoperability.
Ardor originated from the Nxt blockchain project, initiated in 2013, with the aim of addressing scalability and blockchain bloat issues. The Ardor platform was conceptualised in 2016 and launched its mainnet on January 1, 2018. The founding team, led by Lior Yaffe through Jelurida, has been pivotal in its development. Since its launch, Ardor has released significant updates, hosted successful ICOs, and facilitated projects that underline its capabilities as a Blockchain-as-a-Service (BaaS). Despite challenges in gaining extensive market presence, its collaboration with major firms like Accenture highlights its ongoing potential in the blockchain sector.