Monomer and its copolymers containing electronically isolated indolyl fragments were synthesized by multi-step synthetic route. The materials were examined by various techniques including thermogravimetry, differential scanning calorimetry, UV and fluorescence spectrometry as well as electron photoemission technique. The copolymers exhibit initial mass loss temperatures in the range of 259-321 degrees C and form amorphous films with glass transition temperatures of 102-122 degrees C. Thin layers of the materials demonstrate ionization potentials of about 5.7 eV. The copolymers were tested as host materials in electro-phosphorescent devices. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.