1. n. [Drilling Fluids]

A compound of sulfur that contains the S-2 ion. Sulfides can be generated from soluble iron sulfide minerals or from sulfate-reducing bacteria. The term "active sulfide" is used to denote compounds that revert to the highly toxic H2S gas when acidified with 2-molar citric acid solution, as opposed to inert sulfide, which is stable. Active sulfides include calcium sulfide and bisulfide formed when H2S reacts with lime in an oil-base mud. Their accumulation constitutes a safety concern at the rig because of the risk of reverting to H2S gas should an acidic influx occur. They may be converted to inert sulfides by adding zinc oxide.

Reference: Garrett RL, Carlton LA and Denekas MO: "Methods for Field Monitoring of Oil-Based Drilling Fluids for Hydrogen Sulfide and Water Intrusions," SPE Drilling Engineering 3, no.3 (September 1988): 296-302.

Antonyms: inert sulfide

See related terms: corrosion coupon,  neutralization,  sulfide