Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013
Changes in goodwill balances
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ 452.9
Foreign currency translation	(13.8)	$ (14.0)
Other adjustments	(0.1)	9.4
Balance at the end of the period	439.0	457.5
Goodwill, Subsequent Recognition of Deferred Tax Asset	8.0
Grace Catalysts Technologies
Changes in goodwill balances
Balance at the beginning of the period	293.8
Foreign currency translation	(1.0)	(0.9)
Other adjustments		1.3
Balance at the end of the period	292.8	293.4
Grace Materials Technologies
Changes in goodwill balances
Balance at the beginning of the period	50.4
Foreign currency translation	(2.0)	(2.3)
Other adjustments		11.5
Balance at the end of the period	48.4	41.2
Construction Products
Changes in goodwill balances
Balance at the beginning of the period	108.7
Foreign currency translation	(10.8)	(10.8)
Other adjustments	(0.1)	(3.4)
Balance at the end of the period	$ 97.8	$ 122.9