Catalyst Intent System
Introduction
Catalyst is a cross-chain intent protocol that creates a marketplace where solvers compete to fulfil users’ token transfers across different blockchains. Built specifically for wallets and applications using resource locks, Catalyst helps deliver better prices and faster settlement times for cross-chain transactions.
What is an Intent Protocol?
An intent protocol allows users to express what they want to accomplish (e.g., “transfer 100 USDC from Ethereum to Polygon”) without specifying exactly how it should happen. The protocol then finds the best way to fulfil this intent through a competitive marketplace of solvers.
Solvers are specialised third-parties who fulfil cross-chain intents using their own capital and liquidity sources. They compete with each other to offer users the best prices for moving assets between blockchains.
Think of Catalyst like Uber for cross-chain transfers: Users request a service (moving tokens across chains), and qualified providers (solvers) compete to offer the best price and service.
What are Resource Locks?
Resource locks are smart contracts that securely hold user funds until specific conditions are met. They act as escrow accounts, ensuring that users’ assets remain safe until their cross-chain transaction is properly executed.
How It Works
- User expresses an intent: A user deposits their tokens using a resource lock standard (like The Compact)
- Intent is distributed to the marketplace: The lock generates a proof of deposit that’s broadcast to Catalyst’s order server
- Solvers bid and compete for intents: Our network of solvers analyses the intent and submits competitive quotes
- Intent execution: The winning solver delivers the requested assets on the destination chain
- Verification & settlement: The delivery is verified, and the locked funds are released to the solver
Concepts & Actors in the Catalyst System
- Intents: User requests that express what they want to accomplish without specifying exactly how it should happen.
- Solvers: Entities who compete to fill orders
- Resource Locks: Smart contracts that securely escrow and unlock user funds
- Order Server: Marketplace where intents are matched with solvers
- Filler: Records asset delivery on destination chain
- Oracle: Transmits proof of delivery back to source chain
- Settler: Verifies proofs and releases locked funds to solvers
You can find more definitions in the glossary.