Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ 858	$ 1,213	$ 849
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities	0	0	(1)
Foreign currency translation	(16)	(60)	174
Gain (loss) on cash flow hedges	(30)	(10)	(1)
Pension and postretirement benefits	(7)	0	9
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(53)	(70)	181
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	805	1,143	1,030
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(6)	(6)	(6)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Celanese Corporation	$ 799	$ 1,137	$ 1,024