2.5.2. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)

The surface morphology of the hydrogels was observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM; Zeiss EVO MA 10 model, Oberkochen, Germany). The analyzed samples were previously hydrated with water until saturation.

#### 2.5.3. Thermogravimetric Analyses (TGA)

Thermobalance (STARe System Mettler Toledo, Greinfensee, Switzerland) equipment was used for the thermal gravimetric analysis, which was performed under a nitrogen gas atmosphere with a heating rate of 10 ◦C min−<sup>1</sup> and a temperature range between 30 ◦C and 550 ◦C. A 250 mL min−<sup>1</sup> flow rate of nitrogen gas was employed with aluminum as a reference material.
