Reporting for Segments (Details1) (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
Each segment's income and reconciliations to income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations
Total segment income									$ 172,976	$ 234,064	$ 105,328
Unallocated corporate expenses									54,591	69,135	63,315
Restructuring and impairment charges	13,000	900	1,500	1,600	19,600	9,600	21,200	13,300	17,030	63,732	19,337
Other expense, net									35,419	77,456	66,231
Income (loss) before income taxes from continuing operations									65,936	23,741	(43,555)
Electronic Materials [Member]
Each segment's income and reconciliations to income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations
Total segment income									74,869	132,585	45,344
Performance Coatings [Member]
Each segment's income and reconciliations to income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations
Total segment income									37,988	39,416	29,551
Color and Glass Performance Materials [Member]
Each segment's income and reconciliations to income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations
Total segment income									32,327	31,514	13,123
Polymer Additives [Member]
Each segment's income and reconciliations to income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations
Total segment income									15,221	18,387	6,708
Specialty Plastics [Member]
Each segment's income and reconciliations to income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations
Total segment income									9,521	11,348	10,164
Pharmaceuticals [Member]
Each segment's income and reconciliations to income (loss) before taxes from continuing operations
Total segment income									$ 3,050	$ 814	$ 438