Supplemental Information (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Financing Receivables [Abstract]
Net Financing Receivables	$ 56	$ 53
Credit Allowances	64	64
Praxair Consolidated Inventories[Abstract]
Raw materials and supplies	168	153
Work in Process	70	58
Finished Goods	244	245
Inventories	$ 482	$ 456

A valuation allowance for receivables due to an Entity for more than one year from the balance sheet date that are expected to be uncollectible.

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Carrying amount, net of valuation reserves and adjustments, as of the balance sheet date of merchandise or goods held by the company that are readily available for sale.

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-Name Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB)

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-Section BB

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Carrying amount (lower of cost or market) as of the balance sheet date of inventories less all valuation and other allowances. Excludes noncurrent inventory balances (expected to remain on hand past one year or one operating cycle, if longer).

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- Definition

Aggregated amount of unprocessed materials to be used in manufacturing or production process and supplies that will be consumed.

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Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of merchandise or goods which are partially completed, are generally comprised of raw materials, labor and factory overhead costs, and which require further materials, labor and overhead to be converted into finished goods, and which generally require the use of estimates to determine percentage complete and pricing.

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An amount representing an agreement for an unconditional promise by the maker to pay the Entity (holder) a definite sum of money at a future date more than one year from the balance sheet date, net of any write-downs taken for collection uncertainty on the part of the holder. Such amount may include accrued interest receivable in accordance with the terms of the debt. The debt also may contain provisions and related items including a discount or premium, payable on demand, secured, or unsecured, interest bearing or noninterest bearing, among a myriad of other features and characteristics. This amount does not include amounts related to receivables held-for-sale.

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