• A novel LDH-W/PFDTMS composite coating on Mg alloy provides superior corrosion resistance, with no corrosion signs after 15 days in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution.
• The coating exhibits excellent superhydrophobicity and self-cleaning properties against water and common beverages, confirmed by contact angle and water-repellency tests.
• The synthesis method is mild (low temperature, atmospheric pressure) and simple, offering a cost-effective approach for Mg alloy protection.
• The study demonstrates the potential of LDH-based composite coatings as environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional chromate coatings.