MerkleTree Airdrop with Signature Verification
Sunday, July 7, 2024
Efficient Token Distribution: Implementing a MerkleTree Airdrop with Signature Verification
Objective:
To develop a scalable and cost-efficient airdrop mechanism using Merkle Trees and digital signatures, significantly reducing computational overhead and ensuring secure token distribution.
Technical Skills and Tools Used:
- Languages: Solidity
- Frameworks/Libraries: OpenZeppelin Contracts, Forge-Std, EIP-191 and EIP-712
- Technologies/Tools: Ethereum, Foundry, zkSync

Functionality Overview:
Efficient Token Distribution:
Utilized Merkle Trees to minimize the computational cost associated with token distribution, significantly reducing gas fees compared to traditional looping mechanisms.
Signature Verification:
Incorporated EIP-191 and EIP-712 standards for robust signature verification, ensuring that only authorized recipients can claim tokens.
Comprehensive Testing:
Conducted thorough testing using Foundry to verify contract functionality and ensure seamless operation across various environments.

Technical Details:
Smart Contract Implementation:
- Solidity: Developed the MerkleAirdrop smart contract to handle efficient and secure token distribution.
- Merkle Trees: Employed Merkle Tree data structures to verify eligibility and ensure efficient data integrity checks.
- Signature Verification: Implemented EIP-712 for message signing, adding a layer of security to the airdrop process.
Airdrop Functionality:
- Token Eligibility: Participants prove their eligibility for the airdrop using Merkle Proofs.
- Secure Claiming: Ensures that only eligible addresses can claim tokens, preventing double-claims.
- Automated Scripts: Included scripts for generating Merkle proofs and deploying contracts to local and test networks.

Project Insights and Achievements:
- Security: Achieved enhanced security through cryptographic signatures and proofs.
- Efficiency: Demonstrated significant gas savings by leveraging Merkle Trees.
- Scalability: Designed the contract to support large-scale airdrops without increasing gas costs.
- Deployment: Streamlined deployment process using a Makefile for efficient execution across networks.

Detailed Breakdown:
Smart Contract Features:
- Merkle Proof Verification: Implemented Merkle Tree logic to verify user eligibility and prevent fraud.
- Signature Security: Used EIP-712 signatures to authenticate claims, ensuring only valid transactions occur.
- Event Logging: Added events to track airdrop claims and facilitate transparent operations.
- Foundry Testing: Conducted extensive testing using Foundry to validate the smart contract’s functionality.
- Deployment: Deployed the contract on local and Sepolia zkSync testnets, ensuring reliable and efficient airdrop execution.
Reflection:
This MerkleTree Airdrop project exemplifies my ability to develop secure, scalable, and efficient token distribution mechanisms. The integration of cryptographic proofs and signatures highlights the potential for future innovations in secure digital asset transfers.