Breno Jacinto Duarte da Costa, Márcio Ferro, Mohamed Yassine Zarouk, Alan Silva · 6 authors
Education 4.0 promotes active, personalized, and competency-based learning aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), yet most current platforms rely on centralized architectures that restrict access, agency, and adaptability. To address this problem, Web3 technologies—including blockchain, decentralized identifiers (DIDs), peer-to-peer storage, and smart contracts—enable the creation of platforms that uphold equity, data sovereignty, and pedagogical flexibility. This paper investigates how the convergence of Education 4.0 and Web3 technologies can drive the development of sustainable, inclusive, and learner-centered digital education systems. We examine two decentralized education platforms, EtherLearn and DeLMS, to assess their design affordances and limitations. Building on these insights, we propose a layered architectural framework grounded in sustainability principles. Our analysis shows that decentralized infrastructures can expand access in underserved regions, increase credential portability, empower learners with greater autonomy, and foster participatory governance through decentralized voting, token-based incentives, and community moderation. Despite these advantages, significant challenges remain around usability, energy efficiency, and regulatory compliance. We conclude by identifying key research priorities at the intersection of sustainable educational technology, digital equity, and decentralized system design.
This chapter delves into the transformative power of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) as foundational components of the Web3 ecosystem. It examines the way tokenization is disrupting the digital asset ownership vector to bring decentralized exchange of assets and the redesign of industries like creative arts, real estate to finance. The chapter provides the whole picture of technical, legal and operational frameworks using which the NFT adoption takes place through a deep dive into token standards, smart contract architecture, decentralized storage, and cross chain interoperability. It also examines how security and authentication protocols, security mechanisms, and maintenance practices of decentralized systems work together to make sure of trust, provenance and usability in decentralized environments. Furthermore, the chapter investigates the integration of NFTs with metaverse platforms, the emergence of advanced token protocols, and the broader implications for identity, governance, and digital economies.
Abdul Razzaq, Ahmed B. Altamimi, Wilayat Khan, Mohammad Alsaffar · 7 authors
CONTEXT: Metaverse is an emerging technology that synchronizes physical and virtual things. It is used to communicate and simulate the virtual world with the physical world through human actions in real-life scenarios. Combining blockchain and metaverse technologies produces an archetype shift in the educational technology domain regarding online certification, largely due to the impact of synchronizing educational technologies. The combined technology elevates the security measure, ensures transparency, enhances accountability, and reduces costs for the online certification process. Proposed Solution: The suggested solution (MetaEduTech) accelerates the certificate verification process by (i) extenuating the risks of misuse by leveraging decentralized storage of the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS), (ii) securing the certificate, and (iii) providing the metaverse environment for certification. We perform experiments and evaluate the MetaEduTech solution by deploying a blockchain-based smart contract model on Ethereum on the Microsoft Windows platform. RESULTS AND IMPLICATIONS: The evaluation results show (i) the efficiency of the query response (5 ms-50 ms), (ii) and the performance of the query execution (CPU utilization between 2%-6%). The findings in this research underscore the effectiveness of the proposed solution with the potential to modernize the certification exam process. The proposed solution and its evaluation can provide insights into how to address the persistent issues surrounding certificate authenticity related to academic verification in a metaverse environment.
With the emergence of quantum computing, traditional cryptographic methods used in blockchain systems face increasing risk. One such area of concern is the Layer-2 protocols zk-Rollups designed to improve scalability and privacy in platforms like Ethereum, which are heavily dependent on classical zero-knowledge proofs such as zk-SNARKs and zk-STARKs. These systems may be compromised by quantum algorithms. To address this, we propose a quantum-secure zk-Rollup model using Quantum Zero-Knowledge Proofs (QZKPs), implemented with IBM’s Qiskit simulator. The protocol uses quantum features like superposition and random basis selection to verify transactions without leaking private data. Simulation results confirm key properties: valid proofs are reliably accepted, while invalid ones are rejected. This demonstrates both the feasibility and future relevance of integrating QZKPs into blockchain systems for post-quantum security.
This study presents SmartMix Web3, a framework combining ensemble machine learning and blockchain technology to optimize low-carbon concrete design. It addresses two key challenges: (1) the limitations of conventional models in predicting concrete performance, and (2) ensuring data reliability and overcoming collaboration issues in AI-driven sustainable construction. Validated with 61 real-world experiments in Cameroon and 752 mix designs, the framework shows major improvements in predictive accuracy and decentralized trust. To address the first research question, a stacked ensemble model comprising Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost)–Random Forest and a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) was developed, achieving a 22% reduction in Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) for compressive strength prediction and embodied carbon estimation compared to traditional methods. The 29% reduction in Mean Absolute Error (MAE) results confirms the superiority of Extreme Learning Machine (EML) in low-carbon concrete performance prediction. For the second research question, SmartMix Web3 employs blockchain to ensure tamper-proof traceability and promote collaboration. Deployed on Ethereum, it automates verification of tokenized Environmental Product Declarations via smart contracts, reducing disputes and preserving data integrity. Federated learning supports decentralized training across nine batching plants, with Secure Hash Algorithm (SHA)-256 checks ensuring privacy. Field implementation in Cameroon yielded annual cost savings of FCFA 24.3 million and a 99.87 kgCO2/m3 reduction per mix design. By uniting EML precision with blockchain transparency, SmartMix Web3 offers practical and scalable benefits for sustainable construction in developing economies.
P. Asha, P. Surendra Reddy, R. Aroul Canessane, J. Refonaa · 6 authors
The Voting DApp is a decentralized application created to offer a safe, open, and impenetrable platform for blockchain-based election administration. A smart contract running on the Ethereum blockchain manages the system’s basic voting logic, guaranteeing integrity through secure voter registration, role-based access control, and the avoidance of duplicate voting. Through a React-based user interface that is integrated with Web3.js, registered voters may cast their ballots, and administrators can add candidates and manage voter registrations. The Voting DApp is a strong solution for contemporary digital voting systems since it makes use of blockchain’s immutability and transparency to guarantee electoral process trust and offer real-time result visibility.
Web3 technologies are fundamentally secured by classical cryptographic algorithms like the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA), Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), and Secure Hash Algorithms (SHA). The advent of fault-tolerant quantum computers, however, poses a significant threat to these systems. Shor’s algorithm can break the asymmetric schemes that underpin user wallets and asset ownership, while Grover’s algorithm quadratically weakens the security of symmetric ciphers and hash functions. This paper presents an integrated simulation framework, built using Python and Qiskit, to demonstrate these quantum threats in a unified context. We implement simulated attacks against simplified, small-scale instances of RSA, ECDSA, AES, and SHA to model the structural feasibility of these quantum attacks. For Shor’s algorithm, we utilize a classical simulation of the quantum oracles for modular exponentiation and elliptic curve point addition, focusing on the viability of the overall quantum-classical workflow. For Grover’s algorithm, we use standard Qiskit circuit library implementations with simplified oracles. Our findings confirm the theoretical vulnerabilities—successfully factoring RSA-15, solving the ECDLP on a toy curve, and finding keys/preimages in 8-bit search spaces. More importantly, this work highlights the practical simulation challenges and immense resource requirements for breaking production-scale keys, reinforcing the critical need for the Web3 ecosystem to transition towards post-quantum cryptography.
The accelerating adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has revealed a significant challenge: ensuring accessible, secure charging infrastructure in areas with limited internet connectivity. This study introduces EVMCSDLT, a novel payment framework that leverages Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) to facilitate secure transactions between EV users and mobile charging stations in offline environments. Unlike conventional payment systems that require continuous Internet connectivity, EVMCSDLT employs a two-part blockchain security mechanism using QR code authentication and hashing techniques. This mechanism distributes security data across both the sender's & receiver's devices, enabling transactions to be validated & recorded locally before subsequent synchronization with the blockchain network. The system is implemented using React.js integrated with Web3, supporting both online & offline transaction processing via MetaMask wallet. It also features real time geospatial tracking of fixed and mobile charging stations through Google Maps, allowing users to locate nearby charging options efficiently. Experimental results demonstrate a reliable transaction range of up to 8.13 meters between devices, consistent QR code scanning with an average response time of 3.4 s under various lighting conditions, and strong resistance to cyber threats in simulated man-in-the-middle attacks. The EVMCSDLT framework marks a significant advancement in extending the accessibility of EV charging technology to underserved areas while ensuring transaction security and integrity regardless of the Internet connectivity status.
The convergence of Web3 technologies and AI agents represents a rapidly evolving frontier poised to reshape decentralized ecosystems. This paper presents the first and most comprehensive analysis of the intersection between Web3 and AI agents, examining five critical dimensions: landscape, economics, governance, security, and trust mechanisms. Through an analysis of 133 existing projects, we first develop a taxonomy and systematically map the current market landscape (RQ1), identifying distinct patterns in project distribution and capitalization. Building upon these findings, we further investigate four key integrations: (1) the role of AI agents in participating in and optimizing decentralized finance (RQ2); (2) their contribution to enhancing Web3 governance mechanisms (RQ3); (3) their capacity to strengthen Web3 security via intelligent vulnerability detection and automated smart contract auditing (RQ4); and (4) the establishment of robust reliability frameworks for AI agent operations leveraging Web3's inherent trust infrastructure (RQ5). By synthesizing these dimensions, we identify key integration patterns, highlight foundational challenges related to scalability, security, and ethics, and outline critical considerations for future research toward building robust, intelligent, and trustworthy decentralized systems with effective AI agent interactions.
Health-care is undergoing a considerable digital shift in the present state, which is driven by the rise of new technologies and the changes taking place globally. The movement is rebalancing the provision and availability of health care, at the same time that it highlights the importance of protecting confidential information about patients. Coupled with the cryptographic primitives, blockchain technology provides a formidable answer, as it promises to improve data integrity using decentralized processes. In this paper, a hybrid blockchain-based EHR management and security solution to Electronic Health Records (EHRs) is described. Having considered the drawbacks of the blockchain in its ability to work with large files the system is connected with Ethereum blockchain through Ganache and program construction tools is equipped with the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS). In the hybrid model, one does store each row hash (unique identifier) of the patients records on the blockchain, but one does not store the actual data on the blockchain, instead on IPFS. A Decentralized Application (DApp) built on the programing language of Ethereum, Solidity, and the web3.js interface also allows secure data access via cryptocurrency wallets like MetaMask. The use of smart contracts is deployed to process transactions to achieve transparency and verifiability. To enhance security the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA) is adapted to provide unauthorised access. Results of simulation reveal that a suggested method is reliable in providing patient data security, maintain immutability, and secure exchange of data. The approach promotes transparency within the digital health-care systems and strengthens the stakeholder belief by allowing a decentralised structure of these systems.
Gennaro Avitabile, Vincenzo Botta, Daniele Friolo, Ivan Visconti
Balancing immutability and compliance with regulations stands as a significant challenge in the realm of blockchain technology applications. Due to the increase of data-protection requirements (e.g., the GDPR in the EU), it is essential to address the problem of deleting data from a blockchain without compromising the security and transparency of the blockchain itself. Several works proposed techniques to address the data redaction problem. In their seminal work, Ateniese et al. [EuroS&P 2017] were the first to propose a redactable blockchain. Their approach focuses on permissioned blockchains and they showed how to change the content of a transaction without breaking the chaining among blocks by using special cryptographic hash functions (i.e., chameleon hash functions) and secure multi-party computation. We observe that the redaction technique of Ateniese et al. does not take into account the possibility that the blockchain supports smart contracts and that a redaction of a transaction might leave inconsistencies in the logic of the contracts, making some remaining non-redacted transactions invalid, and, more in general, the state of a smart contract inconsistent with the content of transactions. We find this choice rather limiting since decentralized and publicly verifiable computation guaranteed by smart-contract-enabled blockchains is necessary for modern (i.e., Web3) applications. To overcome the above limitations of the applicability of the redaction techniques of Ateniese et al., we propose a redaction technique with wider applicability that leverages succinct non-interactive arguments of knowledge (SNARKs) to realize what we call a proof-of-consistency .
트럼프 2기 이후, 가상자산 시장은 새로운 활력의 중심으로 부상하고 있으며, 이러한 흐름은 주로 해외 Web3 프로젝트가 주도하고 있다. 반면, 국내 중심의 Web3 프로젝트는 상대적으로 활력이 저조한 상황이다. 본 연구는 이른바 K-coin(김치 코인)이라 불리는, 국내 개발사가 주도했 거나 국내 거래소에 유동성이 집중된 코인을 글로벌 데이터를 바탕으로 재분류하고, 이들에 내재된 구조적 위험 요인을 실증적으로 분석하였다. 분석 결과, 다수의 K-coin 은 유동성이 소수 거래소에 과도하게 집중되어 높은 중앙화 수준을 보였으며, 이는 평균 유동성은 높지만 한계 유동성이 낮은 상태로, 극단적 가격 급등락에 취약한 구조로 이어졌다. 또한 유동성 집중도가 높을수록 수익률 분포의 왜도(skewness)와 좌측 꼬리 위험(left tail risk)이 함께 증가하는 경향이 나타났으며, 이는 개인투자자들의 관심을 받아 복권형(lottery-like) 수익 구조를 보이는 자산의 특성과 유사하였다. 아울러, K-coin은 한국의 지정학적 리스크에 대한 가격 민감도가 대조군에 비해 유의하게 높았으며, 정보우위 지갑의 대규모 송금 및 거래소 입출금이 집중되는 시점에서는 Pump and Dump(P&D) 위험 또한 통계적으로 유의하게 증가하는 것으로 확인되었다. 이러한 결과는 개인투자자 중심의 국내 가상자산 시장에서 나타나는 높은 유동성이 반드시 질적으로 우수한 것은 아님을 보여주며, 이와 같은 구조적 취약성에서 기인하는 시장 비효율성과 위험 노출을 완화하기 위해서는 기관투자자의 유입과 제도적 보완이 필요함을 시사한다.
The greatest advantage that Web3 applications offer over Web 2.0 is the evolution of the data access layer. Opaque, centralized services that compelled trust from users are replaced by trustless, decentralized systems of smart contracts. However, the public nature of blockchain-based databases, on which smart contracts transact, has typically presented a challenge for applications that depend on data privacy or that rely on participants having incomplete information. This has changed with the introduction of confidential smart contract networks that encrypt the memory state of active contracts as well as their databases stored on-chain. With confidentiality, contracts can more readily implement novel interaction mechanisms that were previously infeasible. Meanwhile, in both Web 2.0 and Web3 applications, the user interface continues to play a crucial role in translating user intent into actionable requests. In many cases, developers have shifted intelligence and autonomy onto the client, leveraging web technologies for computation, graphics, and networking. Web3’s reliance on such frontends has revealed a pain point though, namely that decentralized applications are not accessible to end users without a persistent host serving the web application. Here we introduce the Non-Fungible Program (NFP) model for developing self-contained frontend applications that are distributed via blockchain, powered by web technology, backed by encrypted databases, and controlled by confidential smart contracts. Access to frontend code, as well as backend services, is controlled and guaranteed by smart contracts according to the NFT ownership model, eliminating the need for a separate host. By extension, NFP applications bring interactivity to token owners and enable new functionalities—such as authorization mechanisms for oracles, supplementary web services, and overlay networks—in a secure manner. In addition to releasing an open-source software development kit for building NFPs, we demonstrate the utility of NFPs with an interactive Bayesian game implemented on Secret Network.
The current healthcare landscape is characterised by fragmented data management systems, limiting the effectiveness of patient-centred care. LedgerMed introduces a unique concept solution through blockchain technology, creating a unified, patient-centric electronic health record (EHR) system called the perfect ledger. This system ensures data integrity, security, and interoperability across a decentralised network, addressing critical challenges like data fragmentation and lack of patient autonomy. This chapter explores LedgerMed’s technical architecture, including its use of Layer 1 blockchain and parachains to provide interoperability, scalability, and background for future regulatory compliance. A real-world case study highlights its potential in diverse healthcare settings, particularly in regional and remote areas, demonstrating improved patient outcomes and modernised care delivery. The chapter concludes with a vision for a less-centralised healthcare ecosystem, integrating emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), Web3, drones, and Internet of Medical Things (IoMT). Such a solution is positioned as a pioneering model for non-centralised digital healthcare, advocating for continued research and collaboration across healthcare and technology sectors.
Sahil Tengse, Dhirti Talreja, E. Bravo Luis, Anindita Khade
Securing the integrity, accessibility, and authenticity of digital documents in sectors such as education, healthcare, and corporate governance is of utmost importance. This work proposes an IPFS and QR code-based document storage system on blockchain that offers a decentralized, tamper-evident, and readily accessible solution. The system uses smart contracts on the Ethereum Sepolia Testnet to hold document metadata and securely host the documents themselves on IPFS. In contrast to conventional verification-based methods, this system creates a QR code that points directly to the document's IPFS address, allowing easy access without the need for intermediaries. By removing reliance on centralized bodies, this method guarantees immutability, transparency, and protection against fraud while providing a scalable and economical solution for secure document storage. Through Web3 authentication, smart contracts, and decentralized storage, this study identifies the possibility of blockchain technology in transforming digital document availability.
Dual pricing, where identical dresses are sold at different prices, can confuse customers. This practice makes it hard for customers to understand why they pay more or less for the same dress. This absence of transparency can undermine the trust between brands and their customers. Integrating blockchain technology into branded apparel can revolutionize the industry by enhancing data security and ensuring authenticity. This technology employs a decentralized digital ledger that records transactions immutably, preventing unauthorized alterations and safeguarding sensitive information. By using blockchain, brands can provide customers with verifiable proof of the origin and journey of their products, from manufacturing to retail. Here, A secure dress verification is adopted with the introduction of a public blockchain like Ethereum, Decentralized Application (DApp), and smart contracts. InterPlantary File System (IPFS) is utilized to store dress image files. Thirdweb development framework is used for building this Web3 application. The developed system is for the garment industry, where the brand owner adds their dress details, generating a QR code. Customers or buyers can verify the dress using a QR code, which will show details of the dress, including the transaction hash. Thus, the proposed anti-counterfeit system can mitigate dual pricing complications.
Breno Jacinto Duarte da Costa, Márcio Ferro, Mohamed Yassine Zarouk, Alan Silva · 6 authors
Traditional learning management systems are cloud-based and teacher-centric, limiting accessibility, flexibility, and student-centered learning. We present the Active Learning EXperience (ALEX), a decentralized learning management system aligned with Education 4.0, supporting flipped and project-based learning. ALEX leverages Web3 technologies (blockchain, InterPlanetary File System, and offline-first mechanisms) to enhance security, privacy, and access in low-connectivity environments. This study evaluated, through the case study method, ALEX's usability, performance, and pedagogical impact with nine third-year information systems students and one facilitator in an authentic project-based course at a Brazilian university, with two non-governmental organizations taking part as clients. Instruments included a custom usability questionnaire, and a pre/post-test skill assessment. Results showed significant improvements in hard and moderate improvement in soft skills, suggesting further enhancements. Future work will focus on expanding ALEX's collaborative features and scalability testing to strengthen its impact on student engagement and learning outcomes.
Data marketplace are rapidly gaining traction as critical components of the modern data economy. However, traditional centralized marketplaces suffer from inherent challenges such as data leakage, lack of user control and single points of failure. To address these limitations, we propose Versatile Peer Network (VePran) – a decentralized data market place built on the Web3 suite of technologies. VePraN is designed to be modular, scalable and aligned with open standards, ensuring broad interoperability and future extensibility. Leveraging the InterPlanetary File System for persistent storage and blockchain for identity and ownership management, the platform offers a robust infrastructure that enhances data security and provenance. Unlike existing buyer centric solutions, VePraN adopts a seller oriented approach, empowering data owners with greater autonomy, fair exchange and control over their data assets. In addition to enabling secure data exchange, the platform facilitates the trading of machine learning models, expanding its utility in AI driven ecosystems. Verification mechanisms such as Merkle roots and Non- Fungible Tokens are employed to ensure data integrity and authenticity. This paper presents the architecture and implementation of VePraN as a foundational step toward a more equitable and resilient data exchange system.
As Web3 technology rapidly evolves, data management efficiency has become a critical challenge because of the decentralized nature of blockchain technology, which requires extensive computational and storage resources. Existing research highlights that decentralized consensus mechanisms in blockchain, such as proof-of-work (PoW) and proof-of-stake (PoS), lead to significant data redundancy, storage limitations, and latency issues, making data management efficiency complex. Moreover, the need for security and immutability in blockchain data storage exacerbates these challenges as the system scales and unique challenges unfold in maintaining efficient data management. Using Monte Carlo simulation, we analyzed the model’s behavior under various scenario by manipulating key variables such as network latency, node distribution, data block size, consensus mechanism efficiency, and storage redundancy levels. Our findings indicate that consensus mechanism efficiency has the most significant impact on overall data management performance, followed by network latency and node distribution. Interestingly, although data block size shows a moderate impact, storage redundancy levels have a relatively minor effect on efficiency. These simulation studies provide insights into optimizing consensus protocols and improving network infrastructure in enhancing the efficiency of Web3 data management.