The main physical characteristics of two types of controlled permeability formwork(CPF) are analyzed.Combined with macrostructure and microstructure tests,principles and effects of CPF to improve the concrete performance are discussed.The results illustrate that water cement ratio(m_w/m_c) of poured concrete surface can be effectively decreased and pore distribution of concrete surface can be improved by using CPF,anti-permeability and durability of concrete can be strenghthened as well.