Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
Net earnings (loss)	$ 183	$ 142
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities	0	0
Foreign currency translation	26	58
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps	1	9
Pension and postretirement benefits	6	3
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	33	70
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Net earnings (loss)	183	142
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities	0	0
Foreign currency translation	26	58
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps	1	9
Pension and postretirement benefits	6	3
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	33	70
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	216	212
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Celanese Corporation	$ 216	$ 212