Objective The Matouying Uplift hosts the first explored hot dry rock (HDR) resources in central and eastern China, making its thermal genesis mechanism a core research focus. Given the ambiguities in heat transfer processes within metamorphic HDR reservoirs and the lack of refined characterization of the deep temperature field in this region, this study aims to clarify the regional heat transfer mechanism, achieve precise characterization of the deep temperature field, and provide theoretical support for the exploration of high−yield HDR wells.

Methods This investigation targets the metamorphic−rock thermal reservoir in the Matouying Uplift, Hebei Province. Based on the latest measured data from local HDR exploration wells, we systematically analyze the regional tectonic evolution, terrestrial heat flow distribution, and borehole temperature measurements. A quantitative heat−transfer analysis model is established to determine the key temperature boundaries of typical geological profiles and to reveal their controlling factors.

Results This study proposes a dominant heat−transfer theory for metamorphic HDR reservoirs in the Matouying Uplift. The results confirm that deep mantle heat serves as the primary heat source for the regional HDR system, with crust−derived heat flow lower than 35 mW/m². The destruction of the North China Craton triggered lithospheric tension and thinning, which enhanced mantle thermal convection and formed dominant heat−transfer channels from the deep crust to the shallow subsurface. High−thermal−conductivity reservoirs in the uplift promote directional heat convergence and result in conduction−dominated heat flow. Meanwhile, fluid circulation within fault zones drives convective heat transfer, generating a composite heat−transfer pattern that is reflected in borehole temperature profiles. Affected by three−dimensional variations in rock physical properties, a nonlinear three−stage layer−controlled heat−transfer process from the crystalline basement to the surface is identified. Furthermore, the 150 ℃ temperature contour line of typical profiles is quantitatively determined, enabling refined characterization of the deep temperature field at various tectonic positions.

Conclusions This study clarifies the thermal genesis and heat−transfer mechanisms of HDR resources in the Matouying Uplift. The findings provide a novel theoretical basis for the targeted exploration of high−yield HDR wells at fault−zone intersections in the study area and are of significant theoretical and practical value for the exploration and development of HDR resources in central and eastern China.