Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Net earnings (loss)	$ 607	$ 377	$ 498
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities	0	(1)	(3)
Foreign currency translation	(27)	37	5
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps	27	17	15
Pension and postretirement benefits	(180)	(63)	(97)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(180)	(10)	(80)
Comprehensive income (loss)
Net earnings (loss)	607	377	498
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities	0	(1)	(3)
Foreign currency translation	(27)	37	5
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps	27	17	15
Pension and postretirement benefits	(180)	(63)	(97)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(180)	(10)	(80)
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	427	367	418
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	0
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Celanese Corporation	$ 427	$ 367	$ 418