LEGAL PROCEEDINGS AND CONTINGENCIES (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 24, 2010 Diacetyl Reserve	Oct. 19, 2010 Environmental Reserve	Oct. 29, 2010 Disputed Claims Reserve	Oct. 29, 2010 Segregated Reserves
Summary of distributable claim reserves established under Chapter 11 Plan
Claim reserve approved	$ 7	$ 38	$ 42	$ 30

The amount approved by the Bankruptcy Court to be paid for claims not allowed in the Chapter 11 cases.

No definition available.

Name:	chmt_BankruptcyClaimsReserveBalanceApproved
Namespace Prefix:	chmt_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant