Depreciation Amortization and Capital Expenditures by Reportable Segments (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	$ 99,020	$ 96,753	$ 95,578
Capital expenditures	280,873	190,574	75,478
Polymer Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	28,992	30,436	30,854
Capital expenditures	43,195	51,186	18,413
Catalysts
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	43,876	43,978	42,396
Capital expenditures	117,111	63,478	38,967
Fine Chemistry
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	24,238	21,004	21,570
Capital expenditures	119,088	60,679	17,193
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	1,914	1,335	758
Capital expenditures	$ 1,479	$ 15,231	$ 905