Black powder is also a commonly used collector in the flotation of sulfide ores. Compared to xanthate, its collecting power is weaker, but its selectivity is better. Its selectivity is mainly reflected in its weaker collecting power for pyrite, so it is used for the flotation of other sulfide ores containing pyrite. For example, when suppressing the flotation of lead and copper sulfide minerals from pyrite, it can be used to reduce the dosage of pyrite inhibitor and improve the concentrate grade.

The characteristics of black powder are: it is mostly a dark green oily liquid, corrosive, slightly soluble in water, decomposes upon heating, and in addition to its collecting properties, it also has frother properties and good selectivity. Black powder is not easily decomposed in acidic pulp and is also difficult to oxidize, which is an advantage. However, because it contains a small amount of sulfiding agent for heavy metal oxide ores, it is suitable for the selection of slightly oxidized sulfide ores.