Liquid phase formation of alkyl- and perfluoro-phosphonic acid derived monolayers on magnesium alloy AZ31 and their chemical properties

► Phosphonic acid derived self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) were formed on magnesium alloy by liquid phase method. ► Chemical bonding states between the SAMs and magnesium alloy were investigated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. ► Chemical stability and corrosion resistance of the SAMs on magnesium alloy increased with an increase in the alkyl chain length.