Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ 1,213	$ 849	$ 906
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities	0	(1)	0
Foreign currency translation	(60)	174	(11)
Gain (loss) on cash flow hedges	(10)	(1)	5
Pension and postretirement benefits	0	9	(4)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(70)	181	(10)
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	1,143	1,030	896
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(6)	(6)	(6)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Celanese Corporation	$ 1,137	$ 1,024	$ 890