Goodwill and Other Identifiable Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013 Activated Carbon and Service Segment	Dec. 31, 2012 Activated Carbon and Service Segment	Dec. 31, 2013 Equipment Segment	Dec. 31, 2012 Equipment Segment	Dec. 31, 2013 Consumer Segment	Dec. 31, 2012 Consumer Segment	Dec. 31, 2011 Consumer Segment
Segment information
Balance on the beginning of the period	$ 27,030	$ 26,839	$ 20,310	$ 20,167	$ 6,660	$ 6,612	$ 60	$ 60	$ 60
Restructuring	(419)		(419)
Foreign currency translation	(59)	191	70	143	(129)	48
Balance on the end of the period	$ 26,552	$ 27,030	$ 19,961	$ 20,310	$ 6,531	$ 6,660	$ 60	$ 60	$ 60