Novel poly(spiroorthocarbonate)s [poly(SOC)]s having a Cardo or bent structure were synthesized by polycondensation of several bis-catechols having fluorene (BCFL), spirobisindane (BCSPI), or spirobischromane (BCSPC) in the structure with 2,2,6,6-tetrachlorobenzo[1,2-d:4,5-d']bis[1,3]dioxole (4ClBD). Synthesis of poly(SOC)s was confirmed by NMR and IR spectrometry. The poly(SOC)s obtained from BCFL or BCSPC were soluble in common organic solvents. The glass transition temperature of the poly(SOC)s was not detected by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) in the range of 50-300 degrees C. The 10 wt % decomposition temperature of the poly(SOC) s was found to be above 400 degrees C. These results indicated the high thermal stability of the poly(SOC)s. Soluble poly(SOC) s could be possessed to form a film on a glass plate by the spin coat method. The obtained polymer films were 0.2 mu m in thickness with 95% light transmission in the optical wavelength range. These results suggested that the Cardo or bent structure may block the packing of the main-chain of the structure, which improves the solubility of the polymers, increases transparency, and enhances the thermal stability of SOCs. (C) 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.