Transforming RDF-star to Property Graphs: A Preliminary Analysis of Transformation Approaches -- extended version

Abstract

RDF and property graph models have many similarities, such as using basic graph concepts like nodes and edges. However, such models differ in their modeling approach, expressivity, serialization, and the nature of applications. RDF is the de-facto standard model for knowledge graphs on the Semantic Web and supported by a rich ecosystem for inference and processing. The property graph model, in contrast, provides advantages in scalable graph analytical tasks, such as graph matching, path analysis, and graph traversal. RDF-star extends RDF and allows capturing metadata as a first-class citizen. To tap on the advantages of alternative models, the literature proposes different ways of transforming knowledge graphs between property graphs and RDF. However, most of these approaches cannot provide complete transformations for RDF-star graphs. Hence, this paper provides a step towards transforming RDF-star graphs into property graphs. In particular, we identify different cases to evaluate transformation approaches from RDF-star to property graphs. Specifically, we categorize two classes of transformation approaches and analyze them based on the test cases. The obtained insights will form the foundation for building complete transformation approaches in the future.