Secure and Formalized Blockchain-IPFS Information Sharing in Precast Construction from the Whole Supply Chain Perspective

Abstract

Blockchain–Interplanetary File System (IPFS) integration has attracted increasing attention in construction management for addressing storage limitations and improving efficiency. However, a comprehensive evaluation of such integration is lacking. Whether it is practically available remains unclear. In addition, the lack of information encryption mechanism in current blockchain-IPFS solutions may cause security risks. Thus, its wide acceptance is hindered. To address this insufficiency, this paper proposes a hybrid blockchain-IPFS system to improve normativeness, security, and the efficiency of information sharing in precast supply chain management (PSCM). Firstly, consideration analysis of system development was conducted based on user-centered design philosophy, identifying practical needs of information sharing in PSCM and comprehensively evaluating current solutions. Based on identified insufficiencies, a hybrid blockchain-IPFS system is proposed with formalization, security, and efficiency considerations. Specifically, an Omniclass-based classification system is proposed for formalizing information sharing in PSCM, in which multiple channels are introduced to improve security. Furthermore, a two-step lightweight asymmetric encryption scheme is established to protect data privacy. Finally, an off-chain data storage scheme is constructed combining IPFS with cloud-based object storage service. The feasibility of our proposed system was validated by a focus group in a real-world case. This research contributes to the body of knowledge by improving information sharing in PSCM with improved security and advancing its standardization process. This is one of the first studies that conducted both technical and practical evaluation of blockchain-IPFS in practical projects, providing valuable reference for future endeavors in its implementation. Both theoretical and practical implications are discussed to suggest future research directions and ways to improve its adoption practices.