The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of rhamnolipids (RLs) extracted from Pseudomonas aeruginosa as a possible eco-friendly inhibitor for the corrosion protection of rebars in concrete. Two application methods were tested: application of RLs as a coating on the steel (conditioning method) and addition of the RLs directly to the aggressive environment (addition method). Both methods were evaluated for their ability to protect steel in simulated concrete pore solution containing 0.5 M NaCl. The results highlight a delay in the initiation of local corrosion followed by a rapid propagation rate of corrosion for conditioning method. This evolution is in relation with the heterogeneity of the formed RLs layers. The addition method provides a different film formation and better protection against corrosion. Using a 1 g·L ${}^{-1}$ concentration, the inhibition effect was observed at least for 24 h of immersion.

Using bio-binder and bio-additives as recycling agents for asphalt mixtures with high-content of reclaimed asphalt (RA) is proving to be feasible. It is still not clear whether this combination might provide new known hazardous emissions from airborne binder fumes. The health hazard related to airborne bitumen fume generation is primarily relevant for paving crews, whereas there is little opportunity for exposure for asphalt plant workers. In this study, measurements of gaseous organic compounds from airborne binder fumes of selected bio-asphalt mixtures have been measured during the laboratory mixing process by using a thermo-mixer equipped with a chimney at University Gustave Eiffel. Parameters studied are the binder nature, mix formula, and mixing temperatures. Results show that generally combining bio-based materials and RA is as safe as using conventional bitumen and RA; however, thanks to this approach, it was possible to identify a strong link between bituminous materials’ composition and their emission potential.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) derivatives, specifically azaarenes and nitrated and oxygenated PAHs, are emerging contaminants of concern due to their increased toxicity and persistence compared to the parent PAHs. Despite their toxicity, their simultaneous analysis in complex matrices, such as in fumes emitted from bituminous mixtures, remains challenging due to limitations of conventional analytical techniques. To address this, an advanced methodology was developed using Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS Orbitrap Eclipse) equipped with an APCI source for the simultaneous identification and quantification of 14 PAH derivatives. Chromatographic and ionization parameters were optimized to ensure maximum sensitivity and selectivity. Following ICH Q2(R2) guidelines, the method was validated, demonstrating excellent linearity (R² > 0.99), high mass accuracy (≤5 ppm), strong precision (<15%), and excellent sensitivity. Limits of detection (LODs) ranged from 0.1 µg L⁻¹ to 0.6 µg L⁻¹ and limits of quantification (LOQs) ranged from 0.26 µg L⁻¹ to 1.87 µg L⁻¹. The validated method was successfully applied to emissions from asphalt pavement materials collected on quartz filters under controlled conditions, enabling the identification and quantification of all 14 targeted compounds. These results confirm the method’s robustness and suitability for trace-level analysis of PAH derivatives in complex environmental matrices.