Coated article having boron doped zinc oxide based seed layer with enhanced durability under functional layer and method of making the same

摘要

A coated article is provided with at least one functional layer, such as an infrared (IR) reflecting layer(s) of or including silver and/or gold. A dielectric and substantially transparent seed layer is provided under and directly contacting the functional layer. In certain example embodiments, the seed layer includes an oxide of zinc and boron for increasing the hardness of the layer and thus improving durability of the overall coating. The seed layer may further include aluminum and/or gallium, for enhancing the electrical properties and/or reducing the stress in the resulting coating. The seed layer may be deposited by a substantially metallic target in the presence of oxygen in certain examples.