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All currently known sandwich‐type electrochromic devices (ECDs) require at least one optically transparent electrode (OTE) for their operation. Here, it is demonstrated that this requirement is conceptually redundant. The so‐called inverted sandwich ECD architecture is introduced, with its principal components being: two solid optically nontransparent electrodes (high electrical conductivity material), an insulator that prevents a short‐circuit between the electrodes, and an electrochromic mixture applied on a solid carrier. The modus operandi of the present proof‐of‐concept solution‐phase double‐sided ECD is a reversible color change of the indicator dye caused by the variations in pH of the water‐based electrolyte solution due to electrolysis. Application of the inverted sandwich topology to make electrochromic tapes is given.

A green superhydrophobic hybridization concept that incorporates biomimetics (lotus effect), chemistry (siloxane and silane admixtures), and nanotechnology (hydrophobic coating with SiO2 nanoparticles) is used to produce superhydrophobic concrete. The fabricated samples exhibit superior hydrophobicity, contact angles (CA) up to 157.6° ± 3.1°, and roll‐off angles (RO) of 6.5° ± 1.5°, even under high surface mechanical abrasion. The superhydrophobic samples can decrease freeze‐thaw damage and maintain high freeze‐thaw resistance effectively. The modified surfaces exhibit 6 times lower deicing strength compared with the reference surfaces. Furthermore, the high water repellency helps to prevent corrosive liquids from encountering the concrete reinforcement samples and helps to improve the corrosion resistance of steel bars. These unique key properties and self‐cleaning capability make superhydrophobic concrete relevant for a wide range of commercial and practical engineering applications in construction, bridges, and transportation.

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