In a scenario of natural and energetic resources being reduced, innovation through the concept of circular economy becomes the impulse towards an economic system that does not waste resources and maximizes the usefulness of products.

This PhD thesis aims to contribute to the knowledge of the mechanical properties (in this case, focused on acoustic insulation) of building materials incorporating industrial by-products, especially Electric Arc Furnace slags.

To do so:

• A valid method has been developed for measuring airborne noise insulation in small samples, reducing costs and resources for future research.

• The acoustic performance of concretes with EAF slags and other industrial by-products has been evaluated, as a substitute for natural aggregates.

• The acoustic performance of plaster plates with EAF slags has been evaluated as partial substitutes for natural plaster.

The results obtained show that, despite their higher density, the use of aggregates from electric arc furnace slags does no improve natural aggregates. Though, they achieve an acoustic performance that allows their use in buildings, according to current and future noise protection regulations.

In the case of plasters, the incorporation of black slag sets a very positive effect, especially at low frequencies and opens up a promising line of research improving the acoustically weaker area of lightweight walling systems.