Polyurethanes are becoming increasingly important as engineering materials because they have excellent abrasion resistance and the properties of both elastomers and plastics. The growth of science and technology of polyurethanes leads to the development of new materials with more desirable properties. Such kinds of materials include metal-containing polyurethanes, poly(urethane-urea)s and poly(urethane-ether)s with isocyanate structural units combining the properties of enhanced thermal stability, fire retardancy, flexibility and solubility. Ionic diols containing metal salts are used as important starting materials for the synthesis of metal-containing polyurethanes in which the metal is firmly incorporated in the backbone of the polymer chain. Incorporation of metal into polyurethanes has led to wide application as aqueous thickeners, impregnates, textile sizers, adhesives, additives, resins and catalysts. The aim of this work is to present an overview of the various methods of preparation and properties of metal-containing polyurethanes and their copolymers. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.