Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Net earnings (loss)	$ 117	$ 167	$ 510	$ 512
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities	0	0	0	0
Foreign currency translation	28	(69)	4	18
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps	(2)	5	(1)	14
Pension and postretirement benefits	10	4	25	12
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	36	(60)	28	44
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Net earnings (loss)	117	167	510	512
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities	0	0	0	0
Foreign currency translation	28	(69)	4	18
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps	(2)	5	(1)	14
Pension and postretirement benefits	10	4	25	12
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	36	(60)	28	44
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	153	107	538	556
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	0	0
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Celanese Corporation	$ 153	$ 107	$ 538	$ 556