SMR is a highly charged anionic polyelectrolyte which inhibits and distorts calcium carbonate crystal formation under boiler operating conditions. SMR also fluidizes phosphate treatment sludge, formed in the boiler. It also effectively disperses iron oxides, so they can easily be removed from the boiler, by normal blowdowns. In addition, SMR has the ability to condition boiler metal surfaces, to prevent boiler sludge from adhering to form a heat-insulating scale.