Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Net earnings (loss)	$ 210	$ 203	$ 393	$ 345
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities	0	0	0	0
Foreign currency translation	(50)	29	(24)	87
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps	0	0	1	9
Pension and postretirement benefits	9	5	15	8
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(41)	34	(8)	104
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Net earnings (loss)	210	203	393	345
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities	0	0	0	0
Foreign currency translation	(50)	29	(24)	87
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps	0	0	1	9
Pension and postretirement benefits	9	5	15	8
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(41)	34	(8)	104
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	169	237	385	449
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	0	0
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Celanese Corporation	$ 169	$ 237	$ 385	$ 449