Plasma API Quickstart

To use the Plasma API you’ll need to create a free Alchemy account first!

Introduction

Plasma is an EVM-compatible Layer-1 purpose-built for stablecoins, using PlasmaBFT (Fast HotStuff) and a native Bitcoin bridge to enable near-instant, zero-fee USD₮ transfers and confidential payments.

What is the Plasma API?

The Plasma API allows interaction with the Plasma network through a set of JSON-RPC methods. Its design is familiar to developers who have worked with Ethereum’s JSON-RPC APIs, making it intuitive and straightforward to use.

Getting Started Instructions

1. Choose a Package Manager (npm or yarn)

Select a package manager to manage your project’s dependencies. Choose between npm and yarn based on your preference or project requirements.

$
# Begin with npm by following the npm documentation
>
# https://docs.npmjs.com/downloading-and-installing-node-js-and-npm

2. Set Up Your Project

Open your terminal and execute the following commands to create and initialize your project:

$
mkdir plasma-api-quickstart
>
cd plasma-api-quickstart
>
npm init --yes

This creates a new directory named plasma-api-quickstart and initializes a Node.js project within it.

3. Make Your First Request

Install Axios, a popular HTTP client, to make API requests:

$
npm install axios

Create an index.js file in your project directory and paste the following code:

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const axios = require('axios');
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const url = 'https://plasma-mainnet.g.alchemy.com/v2/${your-api-key}';
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const payload = {
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  jsonrpc: '2.0',
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  id: 1,
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  method: 'eth_blockNumber',
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  params: []
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};
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axios.post(url, payload)
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  .then(response => {
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    console.log('Latest Block:', response.data.result);
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  })
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  .catch(error => {
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    console.error(error);
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  });

Remember to replace your-api-key with your actual Alchemy API key that you can get from your Alchemy dashboard.

4. Run Your Script

Execute your script to make a request to the Plasma network:

$
node index.js

You should see the latest block information from Plasma’s network outputted to your console:

$
Latest Block: 0x...

Next Steps

Congratulations! You’ve made your first request to the Plasma network. You can now explore the various JSON-RPC methods available on Plasma and start building your dApps on this innovative platform.