Fig. 2: Physical properties, microstructure, and functional performance of hydrogels.

A Fluidity assay. B SEM representative micrographs of lyophilized hydrogels; note that ASFH-H displays smaller pores but heterogeneous microstructure due to undissolved Andro particulates, whereas ASFH-L exhibits larger, uniformly interconnected pores; Scale bars: 500 µm (top, 150×), 100 µm (middle, 1000×), 50 µm (bottom, 2000×). Accelerating voltage 5.0 kV, working distance 10.0 mm. C–E Statistical graphs of matrix, ASFH-L, and ASFH-H hydrogels indicating pore size distributions (n = 4). F–G Statistical chart of swelling and degradation data reflects that homogeneity, not pore size alone, governs network stability (n = 3). H Macroscopic bioadhesion assay on porcine skin. ASFH-L adhered to the skin, which was immersed in water for 30 s (simulating wet wound conditions), then subjected to bending and twisting; the gel remained intact, demonstrating adhesion under hydration and mechanical stress. I In vitro drug release profiles showing sustained Andro release. J Consecutive amplitude sweep tests (three cycles with 60 s recovery intervals) demonstrate rheological self-healing via overlapping G' curves. K Macroscopic self-healing visualization by dye-labeled rejoining. Note: all bioadhesion (H) and self-healing (J, K) experiments used the ASFH-L formulation.