Information concerning financial reporting for segments and operations in different geographical areas (Details 2) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Segment EBITDA/earnings reconciliation:
Segment EBITDA	$ 38,952	$ (945)	$ 77,835	$ 36,502
(Loss)/gain on disposal	0	(18)	0	502
Less:
Depreciation, depletion and amortization	10,549	11,184	31,593	32,553
Interest expense, net	8,938	12,703	22,556	32,830
Foreign currency, net	57	4,595	655	2,525
Provision for income taxes	6,590	1,205	13,316	5,819
Share of provision for income taxes of unconsolidated companies	761	985	1,748	1,422
Net earnings (losses) from continuing operations	12,057	(31,617)	7,967	(38,647)
Less: Net earnings/(losses) from discontinued operations, net of tax	5,625	(18,450)	5,993	(20,879)
Net earnings (losses)	$ 17,682	$ (50,067)	$ 13,960	$ (59,526)