Reporting for Segments (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Sep. 30, 2010	Jun. 30, 2010	Mar. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales	$ 442,695	$ 546,114	$ 593,974	$ 573,009	$ 536,951	$ 528,564	$ 543,485	$ 492,865	$ 2,155,792	$ 2,101,865	$ 1,657,569
Electronic Materials [Member]
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales									622,977	675,401	426,896
Performance Coatings [Member]
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales									602,566	555,023	487,891
Color and Glass Performance Materials [Member]
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales									396,317	382,155	321,750
Polymer Additives [Member]
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales									336,965	302,352	249,510
Specialty Plastics [Member]
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales									172,028	163,058	149,524
Pharmaceuticals [Member]
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales									$ 24,939	$ 23,876	$ 21,998