Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information - Depreciation Amortization and Capital Expenditures by Reportable Segments (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization:	$ 107,370	$ 99,020	$ 96,753
Capital expenditures:	155,346	280,873	190,574
Polymer Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization:	28,589	28,992	30,436
Capital expenditures:	36,667	43,195	51,186
Catalysts
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization:	46,028	43,876	43,978
Capital expenditures:	57,529	117,111	63,478
Fine Chemistry
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization:	30,565	24,238	21,004
Capital expenditures:	60,836	119,088	60,679
Corporate & other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization:	2,188	1,914	1,335
Capital expenditures:	$ 314	$ 1,479	$ 15,231