The interfaces with O–Ni combining bonds are more energetically favorable.
The change of EWF is 1.8 eV for Hf terminated interfaces with Ni substitution for Hf.
The change of EWF is 3.2 eV for Hf terminated interfaces with Hf vacancy.
The change of EWF is 2.0 eV for O terminated interfaces with O vacancy.
Results are explained by interface dipole density, ionic valence and occupied states.