Activity in Recorded Workforce Reduction Liabilities (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 4,780
Workforce reduction charges	13,141	[1]
Payments	(7,393)
Amount reversed to income	(19)
Foreign currency translation	138
Ending balance	10,647
Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses	8,721
Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities	$ 1,926

[1] The nine months ended September 30, 2012 includes a charge of $13.1 million relating to reduction in force liabilities associated with our exit of the phosphorous flame retardants business noted above. The majority of the payments for this liability are expected to occur in 2012.