Quantum blockchain based on integration of quantum entanglement and consensus algorithm

Abstract

Objectives . The aim of this work is to develop and implement a conceptual model of a quantum-secured blockchain by integrating a quantum key distribution mechanism based on the E91 protocol into a classical architecture. Methods . The vulnerabilities of classical blockchain cryptographic mechanisms to threats posed by quantum computing are considered. To create a resilient architecture, it is proposed to combine the properties of quantum entanglement with classical cryptographic methods. The E91 quantum key distribution protocol, based on quantum entanglement and the Bell inequality test (CHSH test), is used as the foundation. A new field, E91 MAC, is introduced to link blocks in the chain, calculated using the HMAC algorithm from the hash of the previous block with a key generated by the E91 protocol. The Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) algorithm is chosen as the consensus mechanism. The software implementation includes simulating the E91 protocol using the IBM Quantum cloud platform and the Qiskit library, as well as deploying a peer-to-peer blockchain network with a CLI interface in Python using TCP sockets. Results . A conceptual model was developed and a prototype of a quantum-secured blockchain was implemented. A functional peer-to-peer network with the DPoS consensus algorithm and a distributed voting mechanism was created. The successful simulation of the E91 protocol confirmed the possibility of generating and verifying a quantum key. The fundamental feasibility of integrating a quantum authentication mechanism (E91 MAC) into the block creation and validation process was demonstrated. Conclusion . The proposed hybrid architecture demonstrates a novel approach to blockchain security, based not only on computational complexity but also on the fundamental laws of quantum mechanics. The integration of the E91 protocol and the DPoS mechanism provides potential resilience to quantum attacks and high network energy efficiency. The software prototype confirms the practical feasibility of the concept for creating secure next-generation distributed ledgers.