How to Bridge to Fraxtal from Ethereum

Frax Finance has just introduced its new Layer 2 solution, Fraxtal. This innovative platform promises to offer users faster transactions, reduced fees, and enhanced scalability, all while maintaining the security and decentralization that Frax is known for.

In this explainer article, we'll delve into the ins and outs of Fraxtal, showing you how to seamlessly bridge your assets from the Ethereum mainnet to Frax's Layer 2.

Whether you're a seasoned DeFi enthusiast or new to the space, our step-by-step guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to leverage the benefits of Fraxtal.

What is Fraxtal

Fraxtal is a modular rollup blockchain (L2) with a "fractal scaling" roadmap. It is an EVM-compatible layer 2 rollup chain for Frax Finance. The project aims to attract significant assets and emerge as a leading layer 2 blockchain. Additionally, the decentralized stablecoin-focused exchange, Curve Finance, has shown interest in Fraxtal. Frax Finance Founder Sam Kazemian expressed confidence that the launch, coupled with several projects debuting shortly afterward, will mark one of the most significant rollup releases of the year.

We've covered Fraxtal extensively here at Flywheel, check out our explainer article to learn everything that we know about Fraxtal so far.

How Does the Fraxtal Bridge Work

The Fraxtal bridge is designed to facilitate the transfer of assets between the Ethereum blockchain and Frax's Layer 2 platform, Fraxtal. The bridge provides a secure and efficient method for users to move their tokens back and forth, leveraging the speed and lower costs associated with Layer 2 solutions while maintaining the robust security of the Ethereum mainnet.

There are two primary pathways within the Fraxtal bridge: the Fraxtal OP Stack Bridge and the Fraxtal Ferry.

The Fraxtal OP Stack Bridge supports the bridging of all tokens, including ETH, frxETH, and any other tokens from Ethereum to Fraxtal and vice versa. The transfer process using this bridge takes less than an hour, with the assets being automatically distributed upon completion.

Conversely, the Fraxtal Ferry is specifically designed for Frax tokens, excluding frxETH. It allows for the bridging of FRAX, FXS, FPIS, FPI, sFRAX, and sfrxETH, taking approximately 24 hours for the assets to be transferred and automatically distributed.

The bridges differ not only in the types of tokens they support but also in the delivery and claim process.

While assets transferred from Ethereum to Fraxtal via the OP Stack Bridge are distributed automatically, those moving from Fraxtal to Ethereum require the user to actively claim their tokens, which can take up to 7 days.

In contrast, the Fraxtal Ferry automatically distributes tokens in both directions, streamlining the process for users. This dual-bridge structure within the Fraxtal platform offers flexibility and choice, catering to the varying needs of its users in terms of speed, convenience, and the type of assets they wish to transfer.