Activity in Recorded Environmental Liabilities (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Beginning balance at beginning period	$ 12,359
Expenditures	(755)
Changes in estimates recorded to earnings and other	127
Exit of phosphorous flame retardants business	8,700
Foreign currency translation	(343)
Ending balance at end of period	20,088
Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses	1,622
Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities	$ 18,466