Abstract:In the cold regions with large temperature difference, covering the closed structure layer on the foundation will lead to the accumulation of water and vapor at the bottom of the surface layer, which will form the “pot-cover effect”, thereby reducing the bearing capacity of the foundation and aggravating the freezing-thawing disease of the construction projects. With the promotion of “the Belt and Road” strategy, the research on the prevention technique measures of pot-cover effect diseases involving the high-grade highways, oil and gas stations and airport runways in cold regions is urgently needed. Based on the investigation of the diseases caused by the pot-cover effect on highway subgrade, subgrade bed of ballastless track of high-speed railway, airport runway and oil transfer station, the present work summarizes the latest progress of the formation mechanism and prevention measures of pot-cover effect of engineering in cold regions from four aspects: disease characteristics, formation mechanism, theoretical model and prevention technology. Meanwhile, the disadvantages of the current study on pot-cover effect are summarized. Finally, the following suggestions are given priority to: (1) pay attention to the test of water vapor content and the research on the formation conditions of the pot-cover effect in permafrost regions; (2) establish a coupled water-vapor-heat-stress model which considering the flow of air and vapor and soil deformation characters to predict the stability of engineering structures; (3) carry out comprehensive prevention and control measures based on the principle of "resistance-passage-interception". These suggestions will provide theoretical guidance and scientific basis for the wide engineering design and hazard control in cold regions.