A method for the production of polycarboxylic acids is provided via the present invention. The novel method herein comprises the steps of i) mixing a phosphorous containing reducing agent with at least one carboxylic acid monomer to form a reaction mixture; ii) adding an equivalent of base to the reaction mixture to provide a partially neutralized reaction mixture; and iii) adding a free radical generator to the partially neutralized reaction mixture under polymerization conditions to form a phospho/carboxylic acid polymer containing solution. Preferred monomers, reducing agents and free radical generators are also disclosed.