Fabrication of biomimetic hydrophobic films with corrosion resistance on magnesium alloy by immersion process

► We have developed a facile and simple method of creating a hydrophobic surface on a magnesium alloy by an immersion process at room temperature. ► The distribution of the micro-structure and the roughness of the surface play critical roles in transforming from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. ► The hydrophobic coatings possess better corrosion resistance than magnesium alloy matrix.