Quai Network (QUAI)
16/04/2026
Quai Network (QUAI) is a proof-of-work cryptocurrency with a hierarchical multi-chain architecture designed for high throughput. It supports mining with three different algorithms simultaneously: KawPoW (GPU), SHA-256 (ASIC), and Scrypt (ASIC).
Key facts
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Ticker | QUAI |
| Mining algorithms | KawPoW (GPU), SHA-256 (ASIC), Scrypt (ASIC) |
| Chain structure | 1 Prime + 3 Region + 9 Zone chains |
| Zone block time | ~10 seconds |
| Max supply | Unlimited (logarithmic emission) |
| Dual token | QUAI + QI |
Multi-chain architecture
Quai uses a three-level hierarchy: one Prime chain (block every ~15 min), three Region chains (~5 min), and nine Zone chains (~10 sec). Miners simultaneously mine all three levels — when a hash satisfies the difficulty of multiple chains at once, it creates a coincident block that links the chains together.
SOAP protocol
SOAP (Subsidized Open-market Acquisition Protocol) is Quai's economic mechanism for multi-algorithm mining. Instead of paying out parent-chain tokens (BTC, LTC) directly to miners, SOAP:
- Collects parent-chain mining rewards in a protocol-controlled address
- Sells those rewards on the open market
- Uses the proceeds to buy QUAI tokens
- Burns or distributes the purchased QUAI as staking rewards
This turns SHA-256 and Scrypt mining work into continuous buy pressure on QUAI, rather than sell pressure from miners liquidating rewards.
