Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 70,872	$ 81,340	$ 177,387	$ 174,954
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation	(67,520)	(100,318)	(365,867)	(106,380)
Pension and postretirement benefits	2	(147)	6	(615)
Net investment hedge	(3,407)	0	39,709	0
Interest rate swap	527	(988)	1,580	(11,409)
Other	(6)	33	24	105
Total other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(70,404)	(101,420)	(324,548)	(118,299)
Comprehensive income (loss)	468	(20,080)	(147,161)	56,655
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(5,083)	(8,421)	(16,185)	(22,727)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$ (4,615)	$ (28,501)	$ (163,346)	$ 33,928