Restructuring and Other - Activity in Recorded Workforce Reduction Liabilities Footnotes (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Severance costs	$ 33,400	$ 1,948	[1]	$ 33,361	[1],[2]	$ 21,640	[1]

[1] The year ended December 31, 2014 includes charges amounting to $1.9 million for retention of certain employees associated with our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses which were sold effective September 1, 2014. These workforce reduction charges are recorded in (Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax), in our consolidated statements of income.The year ended December 31, 2013 includes charges amounting to $33.4 million in connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014 as described above.The year ended December 31, 2012 includes charges amounting to $21.6 million relating to reduction in force liabilities associated with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business noted above.

[2] In connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014, in the fourth quarter of 2013 we initiated a workforce reduction plan which resulted in a reduction of approximately 230 employees worldwide. In the fourth quarter of 2013 we recorded charges of $33.4 million ($21.9 million after income taxes) for termination benefits and other costs related to this workforce reduction plan. Payments under this workforce reduction plan are substantially complete.