Mintlayer and Salus Team Up to Supercharge Bitcoin Scalability with Thunder Network

Mintlayer, a Layer-2 protocol connected to Bitcoin and DeFi, has partnered with Salus, a Web3 security platform, to create Thunder Network, a Layer-3 solution built on BTC. This network promises scalability, improved privacy, and faster transaction speeds. Thunder Network will allow developers to use EVM capabilities and create DApps on Bitcoin.

Mintlayer and Salus Forge Partnership to Revolutionize Bitcoin Scalability with Thunder Network

New York, NY (February 27, 2024) - Mintlayer, a Layer-2 protocol seamlessly connecting Bitcoin and decentralized finance (DeFi), has announced a strategic partnership with Salus, a leading Web3 security services platform. Together, they embark on the development of Thunder Network, an innovative Layer-3 solution built upon the rock-solid foundation of Bitcoin.

Thunder Network serves as a gateway, effortlessly integrating the capabilities of the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) into Bitcoin-connected applications. This empowers developers with the freedom to unlock the full potential of decentralized applications (DApps) within the Bitcoin ecosystem.

Bridging the Blockchain Chasm

This partnership represents a pivotal advancement in bridging the integration gap between Bitcoin and the wider blockchain landscape. Thunder Network leverages Layer-3 rollups intertwined with cutting-edge zero-knowledge (ZK) technology, marking a milestone in blockchain interoperability.

Zero-knowledge rollups (ZKRs) possess the inherent ability to process transactions off-chain, minimizing transaction fees, and significantly enhancing transaction throughput. Furthermore, ZK technology safeguards user privacy, ensuring that sensitive transaction data remains protected.

"Our partnership with Salus embodies a transformative step in Mintlayer's mission to revolutionize Bitcoin's scalability," remarked Enrico Rubboli, Mintlayer Founder. "Through the strategic integration of ZK, Thunder Network empowers developers with lightning-fast transaction speeds and unparalleled privacy. It unlocks the limitless potential of EVM capabilities, paving the way for robust DApp development on top of Bitcoin. We are thrilled to collaborate with Salus, unlocking Bitcoin's full potential and shaping the future of DeFi."

Salus: A Pioneer in ZK Technology

Salus brings unparalleled expertise in delivering EVM ZK application solutions exclusively tailored for Ethereum, solidifying its position as a pioneer in zero-knowledge technology solutions.

"The synergy between Salus' privacy-enhancing ZK solutions and Mintlayer's expertise in Bitcoin Layer-2 scaling will ignite innovation and widespread adoption within the Bitcoin ecosystem," said Shawn Chong, Salus COO. "Our joint efforts prioritize security, privacy, and decentralization, ensuring that Thunder Network remains true to Bitcoin's core principles."

Layer-3 Market Overview

The Layer-3 market, although nascent, has garnered significant interest and investment. As of February 27, 2024, the market capitalization stands at an impressive $713 million, with a 24-hour trading volume of $65.6 million. Prominent projects operating within the Layer-3 space include Degen (Base), Xai, Orbs, Aavegotchi, and Dream Machine Token.

It is important to note that Layer-3 technology has faced scrutiny from certain crypto luminaries. Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has expressed concerns regarding the technical hurdles associated with L3 implementation, citing challenges in data availability and bandwidth limitations.

Nevertheless, the partnership between Mintlayer and Salus signifies a bold leap forward in expanding Bitcoin's capabilities and fostering a more interconnected and scalable blockchain ecosystem. Thunder Network promises to unlock a world of possibilities, empowering developers and users alike to harness the transformative potential of Bitcoin and DeFi.