Skip to main content
This page documents the legacy Whitechain Layer 1 (L1), mainnet chain ID 1875. The L1 is live and producing blocks. It is a separate chain from the Whitechain Layer 2 (L2) documented in the rest of these docs, and it migrates to the L2 at L2 Mainnet launch. To move assets to and from the L2, see OP Stack canonical bridge.

​
Overview

The Whitechain Bridge is a cross-chain solution that enables secure and efficient token transfers between Whitechain and supported blockchain networks. This bridge functionality is available directly inside the Whitewallet Web3 wallet, allowing users to initiate and track bridge transactions without relying on external tools or third-party interfaces. All operations are performed within the wallet using on-chain transactions on both networks. Currently supported routes and assets:
  • Ethereum ↔ Whitechain (USDC, WBT)
Users initiate bridge transactions directly in their wallets to move assets across chains. When a bridge transaction is executed, tokens are locked on the source chain, and an equivalent amount is minted or released on the destination chain. When assets are bridged back, any minted tokens are burned to maintain a balanced total supply. This mechanism ensures that all bridged assets remain fully backed. Once the transaction is confirmed, funds are delivered directly to the user’s wallet on the destination chain. The duration of a cross-chain transfer depends on the consensus mechanisms and finality times of both the source and destination chains. The bridge charges a service fee, which is paid in the native coin of the source chain.

​
How it works

  1. Select networks and asset
The user selects the source chain, destination chain, and the asset to be bridged.
  1. Check balance
The user must have:
  • A sufficient balance of the selected asset.
  • Enough native chain tokens on the source network to cover fees.
  1. Initiate the transaction
After confirmation, the transaction is initiated directly from the user’s wallet.

​
Key mechanics

  • Tokens are locked in a smart contract or burned on the source chain.
  • A corresponding amount is minted or unlocked on the destination chain.
  • Funds are sent directly to the user’s wallet on the destination network.
  • A service fee is applied based on transaction execution costs and bridged liquidity.

​
Fees

The bridge service fee consists of two components:
  • The destination chain transaction fee.
  • A percentage of the bridged amount.
The percentage fee may vary by asset.

​
Risk mitigation

  • If the source-chain transaction fails, the user’s funds remain safely in their wallet.
  • Once the source transaction is confirmed, the bridge guarantees execution on the destination chain.
  • If there is insufficient liquidity for a selected asset, the transaction cannot be initiated until liquidity is replenished.

​
Liquidity models and bridging approaches

The Whitechain Bridge supports two token bridging models:

​
Lock / unlock model

  • Used for tokens that do not grant mint/burn rights to the bridge.
  • Tokens are locked on the source chain and unlocked on the destination chain.
  • Liquidity is fully provided and managed by Whitechain.
  • If liquidity is temporarily insufficient, users cannot initiate a bridge transaction until it is added.
  • Ensures a strict 1:1 backing of assets across chains.

​
Mint / burn model

  • Tokens are minted on the destination chain and burned on the source chain.
  • The token supply is managed directly by bridge smart contracts.
  • No pre-funded liquidity pool is required.
  • Guarantees a balanced total token supply across all supported chains.

​
Summary

The Whitechain Bridge provides a secure and efficient solution for cross-chain asset transfers within the Whitechain ecosystem. Users benefit from direct wallet-to-wallet transfers without complex claim steps or manual smart contract interactions. At present, the bridge focuses on facilitating transfers between Whitechain and supported external networks, with asset backing and supply integrity maintained at all times.