Vanadia-based coatings of self-repairing functionality for advanced magnesium Elektron ZE41 Mg-Zn-rare earth alloy

► A one-step eco-friendly vanadia coating was proposed for Mg alloys. ► The new coating can add self-repairing functionality for an advanced Mg ZE41 alloy. ► The coating is very simple and based on free immersion in a diluted vanadia solution. ► The optimum protection obtained after just 10 min of immersion at room temperature. ► The coating formed is characterized by a self-healing ability.