Characterization and detoxification of foot patch by gelatin - agar- based phase hydrogel

Hydrogels made of gelatin and agar have attracted considerable interest for a multitude of pharmaceutical and biomedical applications due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility and controlled release of bioactive materials. These biopolymers include gelatin, a protein derived from collagen and agar, a polysaccharide obtained from red algae; they are used synergistically to manufacture hydrogels with improved mechanical and swelling properties. Investigation of the properties of these hydrogels is essential for describing their structure and function. Infrared Spectroscopy, particularly Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), is commonly used to detect functional groups in the hydrogel matrix. Secondary electron imaging by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is used in determining the topographical images of the hydrogels. The thermal stability of the hydrogels is determined by conducting Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA). Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) Spectroscopy is used to determine the extent of L-ascorbic acid immobilization in the hydrogel network. The absorption spectra can identify the drug at those wavelengths and determine the drug loading and release profile in the hydrogel system. This study aimed to develop and characterize gelatin-agar-based hydrogels for potential drug delivery applications, highlighting their structural, thermal and functional properties through comprehensive physicochemical analyses.