Noncurrent Other Liabilities (Schedule of Changes in Asset Retirement Obligations Narrative) (Details) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Asset Retirement Obligation, Liability For Assets or Businesses Acquired	$ 10	$ 10
Asset Retirement Obligation, Recoveries Receivable	8
Asset Retirement Obligation, Recoveries Receivable Non-trade	$ 2

Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of known and reasonably estimable amounts of recoveries from third-parties pertaining to asset retirement obligations associated with assets or businesses acquired.

No definition available.

Name:	ce_AssetRetirementObligationRecoveriesReceivable
Namespace Prefix:	ce_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant