Reporting for Segments (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales	$ 481,505	$ 593,974	$ 947,895	$ 1,166,983
Electronic Materials [Member]
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales	90,741	180,362	162,437	382,709
Performance Coatings [Member]
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales	157,315	163,481	309,829	300,181
Color and Glass Performance Materials [Member]
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales	99,889	106,476	201,324	206,281
Polymer Additives [Member]
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales	83,450	91,271	171,174	177,133
Specialty Plastics [Member]
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales	44,151	46,510	91,207	89,139
Pharmaceuticals [Member]
Net sales to external customers by segment
Total net sales	$ 5,959	$ 5,874	$ 11,924	$ 11,540