Sooner 10-K 13 Mar 14 2013 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Feb. 28, 2014	Jun. 28, 2013
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-13	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'SYNTROLEUM CORP	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0001029023	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Accelerated Filer	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	9,959,955	'
Entity Public Float	'	'	$59,055
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'No	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
CURRENT ASSETS:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$11,400	$15,909
Restricted cash	'	725
Accounts receivable	109	134
Taxes receivable	988	'
Accounts receivable from Dynamic Fuels, LLC	'	252
Other current assets	280	237
Total current assets	12,777	17,257
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT - at cost, net	77	58
INVESTMENT IN AND LOANS TO DYNAMIC FUELS, LLC	37,848	38,407
OTHER ASSETS, net	1,113	1,023
Total Assets	51,815	56,745
CURRENT LIABILITIES:	'	'
Accounts payable	783	312
Accrued employee costs	23	71
Deposits	'	725
Total current liabilities	806	1,108
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS	'	603
DEFERRED REVENUE	13,365	15,612
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	'	'
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:	'	'
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 5,000 shares authorized, no shares issued	'	'
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 150,000 shares authorized, 9,943 and 9,829 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively	99	98
Additional paid-in capital	400,262	399,788
Accumulated deficit	-362,717	-360,464
Total stockholders' equity	37,644	39,422
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	$51,815	$56,745

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract]	'	'
Preferred stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	150,000,000	150,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	9,943,000	9,829,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	9,943,000	9,829,000

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Ope

Consolidated Statements Of Operations (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
REVENUES:	'	'	'
Technology	$100	$9,600	$600
Technical services	1,388	1,909	1,719
Technical services from Dynamic Fuels, LLC	469	5,228	974
Royalties from Dynamic Fuels, LLC plant production	'	789	921
Total revenues	1,957	17,526	4,214
COSTS AND EXPENSES:	'	'	'
Engineering	2,280	2,571	2,236
Depreciation and amortization	180	186	200
General, administrative and other (including non-cash equity compensation of $475, $508 and $562 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 respectively.)	8,835	5,552	4,827
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS)	-9,338	9,217	-3,049
INTEREST INCOME	8	22	16
OTHER INCOME	8	6	8
EQUITY IN LOSS OF DYNAMIC FUELS, LLC	-1,569	-10,012	-13,880
FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE	2,247	-296	-17
LOSS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS	-8,644	-1,063	-16,922
INCOME (LOSS) FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS	6,391	-38	-27
NET LOSS	($2,253)	($1,101)	($16,949)
BASIC AND DILUTED NET INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE:	'	'	'
Net loss from continuing operations	($0.87)	($0.11)	($1.89)
Income from discontinued operations	$0.64	'	'
Net loss	($0.23)	($0.11)	($1.89)
WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING:	'	'	'
Basic	9,932	9,835	8,977
Diluted	9,932	9,835	8,977

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Ope1

Consolidated Statements Of Operations (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Consolidated Statements Of Operations [Abstract]	'	'	'
General, administrative and other, non-cash equity compensation	$475	$508	$562

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Sto

Consolidated Statements Of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]	Accumulated Deficit [Member]	Total
In Thousands, except Share data
Balance, in value at Dec. 31, 2010	$82	$375,132	($342,414)	$32,800
Balance, in shares at Dec. 31, 2010	8,168,000	'	'	'
Stock options exercised, in value	'	34	'	34
Stock options exercised, in shares	5,000	'	'	'
Issuance of shares, in value	16	23,522	'	23,538
Issuance of shares, in shares	1,590,000	'	'	'
Vesting of awards granted, in value	'	74	'	74
Vesting of awards granted, in shares	2,000	'	'	'
Match to 401(k) Plan, in value	'	488	'	488
Match to 401(k) Plan, in shares	30,000	'	'	'
Net loss	'	'	-16,949	-16,949
Balance, in value at Dec. 31, 2011	98	399,250	-359,363	39,985
Balance, in shares at Dec. 31, 2011	9,795,000	'	'	'
Stock options exercised, in value	'	63	'	63
Stock options exercised, in shares	10,000	'	'	'
Vesting of awards granted, in value	'	194	'	194
Vesting of awards granted, in shares	1,000	'	'	'
Restricted stock purchased and retired, value	-1	-198	'	-199
Restricted stock purchased and retired, in shares	-29,000	'	'	'
Match to 401(k) Plan, in value	1	479	'	480
Match to 401(k) Plan, in shares	52,000	'	'	'
Net loss	'	'	-1,101	-1,101
Balance, in value at Dec. 31, 2012	98	399,788	-360,464	39,422
Balance, in shares at Dec. 31, 2012	9,829,000	'	'	'
Stock options exercised, in shares	'	'	'	'
Vesting of awards granted, in value	1	349	'	350
Vesting of awards granted, in shares	88,000	'	'	'
Match to 401(k) Plan, in value	'	125	'	125
Match to 401(k) Plan, in shares	26,000	'	'	'
Net loss	'	'	-2,253	-2,253
Balance, in value at Dec. 31, 2013	$99	$400,262	($362,717)	$37,644
Balance, in shares at Dec. 31, 2013	9,943,000	'	'	'

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Cas

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:	'	'	'
Net loss	($2,253)	($1,101)	($16,949)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	6,391	-38	-27
LOSS FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS	-8,644	-1,063	-16,922
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	180	186	200
Foreign currency exchange	-2,247	296	17
Non-cash compensation expense	475	508	562
Non-cash loss in equity method investee	1,569	10,012	13,880
Non-cash technical services revenue from Dynamic Fuels, LLC	'	-3,714	'
Changes in assets and liabilities:	'	'	'
Accounts receivable	25	-9	431
Accounts receivable from Dynamic Fuels, LLC	252	-524	-1,895
Other assets	-278	-18	-27
Accounts payable	471	92	-870
Accrued liabilites and other	-48	-217	169
Deferred revenue	'	-9,050	49
Net cash used in continuing operations	-8,245	-3,501	-4,406
Net cash used in discontinued operations	-10	-38	-27
Net cash used in operating activities	-8,255	-3,539	-4,433
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:	'	'	'
Purchase of property and equipment	-54	-17	-51
Investment in and loans to Dynamic Fuels, LLC	-10,985	-3,000	-9,000
Taxes receivable reduction in Dynamic Fuels, LLC working capital loans	8,987	'	'
Net cash used in continuing operations	-2,052	-3,017	-9,051
Net cash provided by discontinued operations	5,798	'	'
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	3,746	-3,017	-9,051
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:	'	'	'
Proceeds from sale of common stock, warrants and option exercises	'	63	23,572
Purchase and retirement of restricted stock	'	-199	'
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	'	-136	23,572
NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	-4,509	-6,692	10,088
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period	15,909	22,601	12,513
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period	11,400	15,909	22,601
NON-CASH INVESTING ACTIVITIES	'	'	'
Common stock warrants	'	166	'
Accounts receivable reduction in Dynamic Fuels LLC working capital loan	$988	$2,896	'

Business_And_Organization

Business And Organization	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Business And Organization [Abstract]	'
Business And Organization	'
	1. BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATION
	Nature of Operations
	The focus of Syntroleum Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”, “Syntroleum”, or “we”) is the commercialization of our technologies to produce synthetic liquid hydrocarbons. Operations to date have consisted of activities related to the commercialization of a proprietary process (the “Syntroleum® Process”) and previously consisted of research and development of the Syntroleum® Process designed to convert carbonaceous material (biomass, coal, natural gas and petroleum coke) into synthetic liquid hydrocarbons. Synthetic hydrocarbons produced by the Syntroleum® Process can be further processed using the Syntroleum Synfining® Process into high quality liquid fuels, such as diesel, jet fuel (HRJ), kerosene, naphtha, propane and other renewable chemical products.
	Our Bio-Synfining® Technology is a renewable fuels application of our Synfining® Technology. This technology is applied commercially via our Dynamic Fuels, LLC (“Dynamic Fuels”) joint venture with Tyson Foods, Inc. (“Tyson”). The technology processes renewable feedstocks such as triglycerides and/or fatty acids to make renewable synthetic products.
	In the past we have sustained recurring losses and negative cash flows from operations. As of December 31, 2013, we had approximately $11.4 million of cash and cash equivalents available to fund operations and investing activities and have limited income from operations.  Additionally, the Dynamic Fuels plant (the "Geismar Facility") was placed in stand-by mode in December 2012, and remains in stand-by mode as the Company and Tyson have not agreed upon the conditions necessary for start-up.  See Going Concern discussion in Note 2.
	Asset Purchase Agreement with Renewable Energy Group
	On December 17, 2013, we entered into an asset purchase agreement (the “Asset Purchase Agreement”) with Renewable Energy Group, Inc. (“REG”) and REG Synthetic Fuels, LLC, (“REG Synthetic”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of REG, pursuant to which we have agreed to sell substantially all of our assets to REG Synthetic, including all of our intellectual property and our 50% equity interest Dynamic Fuels (the “Asset Sale”).  As consideration for the Asset Sale, REG will assume substantially all of our material liabilities and we will receive 3,796,000 shares of REG common stock, subject to downward adjustment (based on the value of REG common stock at closing, as calculated under the Asset Purchase Agreement) to the extent that our cash on hand at closing is less than $3.2 million;  provided, that, if the per share value of REG’s common stock at closing (as calculated under the Asset Purchase Agreement) is equal  to or greater than $12.91, then the number of shares of REG common stock will be equal to (A) $49,000,000, divided by (B) the REG common stock value at closing (as calculated under the Asset Purchase Agreement).  The closing of the transactions contemplated by Asset Purchase Agreement is conditioned upon the approval of our stockholders and other specified closing conditions.  REG has filed a Registration Statement on Form S-4 in connection with the transactions contemplated by the Asset Purchase Agreement, which includes our proxy statement for a special meeting of stockholders to be held in order to approve the transactions.  If our stockholders approve the transaction and the other closing conditions are satisfied or waived, it is expected that the Asset Sale will close in the second quarter of 2014.
	Following the closing of the Asset Sale and subject to the approval of our stockholders, we intend to liquidate and dissolve in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law.

Summary_Of_Significant_Account

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Syntroleum Corporation and our majority-owned subsidiaries. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Companies in which we own a 20 percent to 50 percent interest, but in which we do not have a controlling interest are accounted for by the equity method. We own 50 percent and have a non-controlling interest in Dynamic Fuels.  The entity is accounted for under the equity method and is not required to be consolidated in our financial statements; however, our share of the Dynamic Fuels results of operations activities is reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and the subsidiary’s summarized financial information is reported in Note 4, “Investment in and Loans to Dynamic Fuels, LLC”. The carrying value of our investment in Dynamic Fuels is reflected in “Investment in and Loans to Dynamic Fuels, LLC” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	The consolidated financial statements for all prior periods have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the April 11, 2013 10-for-1 reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock, which allowed the Company to regain compliance with Nasdaq’s minimum price rule as of April 26, 2013.   As a result of the reverse split, each ten (10) outstanding shares of pre-split common stock were automatically combined into one (1) share of post-split common stock.  Fractional shares received cash and proportional adjustments were made to the Company’s outstanding stock options and other equity awards and to the Company’s equity compensation plans to reflect the reverse stock split.  The consolidated financial statements for all prior periods have been retroactively adjusted to reflect this stock split for both common stock issued and options outstanding.
	Revenue Recognition
	We recognize revenues from technical services provided as such services are rendered. We recognize revenue for royalty fees upon production of finished product by the licensee.
	We recognized revenues from the transfer of technology documentation to customers or through licensing structures. Any deposits or advance payments for the technology documentation is recorded as deferred revenue in the consolidated balance sheets until recognized as revenue in the consolidated statement of operations. The Company recognizes revenue on the transfer of technology documentation upon the physical transfer of the technology documentation by the Company to the customer pursuant to the terms of the specific agreement.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less, primarily in the form of money market instruments. The Company places its temporary cash investments with high credit quality financial institutions. At times such investments may be in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance limit.
	Restricted Cash
	Restricted cash consisted of cash held in an escrow account for the prepayment of operations and invoices for a contractual project. The account was also recorded as a liability in current deposits on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2012.
	Accounts Receivable
	The majority of our accounts receivable is due from technical service agreements. These accounts are typically due within 30 days and are stated as amounts due from customers. Accounts outstanding longer than the contractual payment terms are considered past due. We write off accounts receivable when they become uncollectible. Management determines accounts to be uncollectible when we have used all reasonable means of collection and settlement. Management believes that all amounts included in accounts receivable at December 31, 2013 and 2012 will be collected and therefore no allowance for uncollectible accounts has been recorded.
	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Maintenance, repairs and replacement of minor items are expensed as incurred and major additions, expansions and betterments to physical properties are capitalized. When assets are sold or retired, the cost and accumulated depreciation related to those assets are removed from the accounts and any gain or loss is recognized. Depreciation of property and equipment is computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of three to seven years. Property and equipment consists of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,			December 31,
		2013			2012
	Furniture and office equipment	$	495		$	441
	Leasehold improvements		5			5
			500			446
	Less - accumulated depreciation		-423			-388
		$	77		$	58
	Income Taxes
	Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities and on net operating loss carry-forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws in effect or that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. The Company records a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.
	Asset Retirement Obligations
	We follow FASB ASC Topic 410, Asset Retirement and Environmental Obligations, which requires entities to record the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred and a corresponding increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. The standard requires that we record the discounted fair value of the retirement obligation as a liability at the time the plants are constructed. The asset retirement obligations consisted primarily of costs associated with the future plant dismantlement of our pilot plant. As the pilot plant was directly related to research and development activities and had been expensed accordingly, no corresponding amount was capitalized as part of the related property’s carrying amount. The liability accretes over time with a charge to accretion expense. Based on a change in expected life of the pilot plant, no accretion expense was incurred in 2013 or 2012. See Footnote  3 for additional information.
	Other Assets
	Other assets include costs associated with patents and are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated period of benefit, ranging from fifteen to seventeen years. All costs are capitalized, and amortization begins upon initial costs incurred. Amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $145,000,  $141,000 and $137,000, respectively. We periodically evaluate the recoverability of intangible assets and take into account events or circumstances that warrant revised estimates of useful lives or that indicate that impairment exists. Future amortization expense for patents as of December 31, 2013 is estimated to be $145,000 per year through 2020. Patent costs consist of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,			December 31,
		2013			2012
	Patents	$	2,416		$	2,226
	Less - accumulated amortization		-1,304			-1,203
		$	1,112		$	1,023
	Impairment of Assets
	We follow the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 360, Property, Plant and Equipment, for assets. Management reviews assets for impairment when certain events have occurred or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset may be impaired. An asset is considered to be impaired when the estimated undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset. The impairment provision is based on the excess of carrying value over fair value.
	Accounting for Guarantees
	We follow the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 460, Guarantees for any guarantees entered into after December 2002. Under ASC Topic 460, we are required to record a liability for the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantees.
	Stock-Based Compensation
	Employee Stock-Based Compensation. We account for stock-based compensation in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation – Stock Based. Under the fair value recognition provisions of this statement, share-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized as expense over the applicable vesting period of the stock award (generally three years) using the straight line method.
	Non-Employee Stock-Based Compensation. We also grant stock-based incentives to certain non-employees. These stock based incentives are accounted for in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 505 – Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees. Stock awards that are tied to performance criteria are expensed at the time the performance goals are met.
	Earnings Per Share
	Basic earnings (losses) per common share were computed by dividing net loss by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted earnings per common share for each of the three years ended December 31 are calculated by dividing net loss by weighted-average common shares outstanding during the period plus dilutive potential common shares, which are determined as follows:
		Year ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
		(in thousands)
	Basic weighted-average shares	9,932		9,835		8,977
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options	-		-		-
	Dilutive weighted-average shares	9,932		9,835		8,977
	The table below includes information related to stock options, warrants and restricted stock that were outstanding at December 31 of each respective year, but have been excluded from the computation of weighted-average stock options due to (i) the option exercise price exceeding the twelve-month weighted-average market price of our common shares or (ii) their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive to our loss per share.
		Year ended December 31,
		2013			2012		2011
	Options and warrants (in thousands)		2,360			1,974		2,597
	Weighted-average exercise price of options and warrants	$	25.69		$	30.00	$	24.90
	Average market price of common shares	$	4.90		$	7.90	$	14.60
	Defined Contribution Plan - 401(k)
	We sponsor a defined contribution plan, named the Syntroleum 401(k) Plan (the “401(k) Plan”), covering virtually all of our employees who have met the eligibility requirements. Our employees may participate in the 401(k) Plan upon employment. Participants become eligible for matching and profit sharing contributions upon employment on the last day of the 401(k) Plan quarter.
	We contribute a matching contribution equal to 50 percent of employees’ contributions quarterly in the form of shares of our common stock. No employee purchase of our stock is permitted. We recorded expense of $125,000,  $129,000 and $137,000 from issuing 27,498,  19,942 and 12,120 shares of Syntroleum Stock for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, of which 10,197 shares were issued in January 2014.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Some of the more significant estimates made by management include, but are not limited to, the valuation of stock-based compensation, estimates for accrued liabilities and estimates for asset retirement obligations. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
	Going Concern
	The consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern, which contemplates continuity of operations, realization of assets and liquidation of liabilities in the normal course of business.  As a result of the factors described in Note 1, and in connection with our accumulated deficit of $362.7 million, and our expectation of future cash requirements exceeding our capital availability there is substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.
	The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of assets or the amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should we be unable to continue as a going concern. If the consolidated financial statements were prepared on a liquidation basis, the carrying value of our assets and liabilities would be adjusted to the net realizable amounts. In addition, the classification of the assets and liabilities would be adjusted to reflect the liquidation basis of accounting.
Foreign Currency Transactions
All of our subsidiaries use the U.S. dollar for their functional currency. Assets and liabilities denominated in other currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the rate of exchange in effect at the balance sheet date. Transaction gains and losses that arise from exchange rate fluctuations applicable to transactions denominated in a currency other than the U.S. dollar are included in the consolidated results of operations as incurred.
New Accounting Pronouncements
The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) periodically issues new accounting standards in a continuing effort to improve standards of financial accounting and reporting. We have reviewed the recently issued pronouncements and concluded that there are no recently issued accounting standards applicable to us.

Discontinued_Operations

Discontinued Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Discontinued Operations [Abstract]	'
Discontinued Operations	'
	3. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
	Research and Development
	We have completed the necessary testing and demonstration associated with our previously owned pilot plants as well as completion of catalyst formulation and deactivation studies. All revenues and costs associated with these activities such as; facilities, dismantlement of facilities, overhead associated with the facilities, personnel, equipment and outside testing and analytical work have been reported in “Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations” in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. The total income or (loss) of research and development activities totaled $6,391,000,  ($38,000) and ($27,000) for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	During the year ended December 31, 2013, we sold our pilot plant for $5,798,000.  The Company had no carrying value for the pilot plant since all costs incurred had been expensed as research and development expenses. As such, the total amount of the proceeds was recognized as a gain. In connection with this sale, the buyer assumed all dismantlement and retirement costs, as such, the previously recognized asset retirement obligation of $603,000, reported in “Noncurrent Liabilities of Discontinued Operations” in the Consolidated Balance Sheet, was also recognized as a gain in connection with the sale of the pilot plant.

Investment_In_And_Loans_To_Dyn

Investment In And Loans To Dynamic Fuels	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Investment In And Loans To Dynamic Fuels [Abstract]	'
Investment In And Loans To Dynamic Fuels	'
	4. INVESTMENT IN AND LOANS TO DYNAMIC FUELS
	On June 22, 2007, we entered into definitive agreements with Tyson to form Dynamic Fuels, to construct and operate facilities in the United States using our Bio-Synfining® Technology. Dynamic Fuels is organized and operated pursuant to the provisions of its Limited Liability Company Agreement between the Company and Tyson (the “LLC Agreement”). Other agreements entered into included a technology license agreement whereby we would provide for the transfer of our Bio-Synfining® Technology, provide technology support services to Dynamic Fuels, and receive payment of royalties for plant production. These agreements also included a sales agreement whereby Tyson would be paid a sourcing fee to procure feedstock.
	The LLC Agreement provides for management and control of Dynamic Fuels to be exercised jointly by representatives of the Company and Tyson equally with no LLC member exercising control. This entity is accounted for under the equity method and is not required to be consolidated in our financial statements; however, our share of the Dynamic Fuels net income or loss is reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Dynamic Fuels has a different fiscal year than us. The Dynamic Fuels fiscal year ends on September 30 and we report our share of Dynamic Fuels results of operations on a three month lag basis. Our carrying value in Dynamic Fuels is reflected in “Investment in and Loans to Dynamic Fuels LLC” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. As of December 31, 2013, Syntroleum’s total estimate of maximum exposure to loss as a result of its relationships with this entity was approximately $37.85 million, which represents our equity investment in and loans to this entity, net of recognized losses and other equity accounting adjustments. The carrying value of our investment in Dynamic Fuels exceeds the amount of underlying equity in net assets and loans to Dynamic Fuels by approximately $7.6 million, related to warrants issued to Tyson. The warrants are being amortized over the remaining life of the Dynamic Fuels bonds which expire in 2033.
	Dynamic Fuels was initially capitalized on July 13, 2007 with $4.25 million in capital contributions from Tyson and $4.25 million in capital contributions from us. We contributed an additional $39.25 million and Tyson contributed an additional $41.25 million in cash capital contributions by December 31, 2012. Each member made $14.0 million in working capital loans to the entity by December 31, 2012.
	During the year ended December 31, 2013, each partner made additional equity contributions of
	$3.45 million resulting in total cash and non-cash equity contributions by Syntroleum of $53.56 million and
	$56.74 million by Tyson. Also during the twelve month  period, each partner made additional working capital loans of    $7.54 million.   Syntroleum will likely be required to fund future working capital of Dynamic Fuels.
	In prior years, Dynamic Fuels was engaged in the development and construction of the Geismar Facility. Dynamic Fuels began commercial operations in November of 2010. The Geismar Facility sold 66.8 million gallons of renewable products such as diesel, naphtha, and LPG from December 2010 to September 30, 2013. Nameplate capacity for the plant is 75 million gallons per year.
	Since inception of commercial operations, the plant has experienced mechanical issues, hydrogen supply disruptions and feedstock adulterants which have contributed to plant down time, higher than expected operational costs and operating losses. In order to help resolve differences between us and Tyson regarding plant operational and other issues, on June 27, 2012, we entered into a Settlement Agreement whereby the obligations to us and Tyson for sourcing fees, running royalty fees, line of credit or interest fees and services and expenses under the technical service agreement in the amount of $6,597,000 each were contributed to Dynamic Fuels’ equity. Contemporaneous with the execution of the Settlement Agreement, we entered into a revised site license agreement, rights and obligations under the master license agreement were amended, warrants to purchase our common stock that had been issued to Tyson were vested, and the sales agreement under which Tyson procures feedstock was amended to pay Tyson an additional $.01 per pound, up to 1.1 billion pounds, to procure certain low cost feedstock.
	Upgrades to the feedstock pre-treatment area were installed during 2012. After completion of the maintenance turnaround on December 10, 2012, the plant was placed in stand-by mode primarily because of economic conditions, including without limitation, falling RIN prices, uncertainty regarding the extension and retroactive application of federal tax credits, and the high price of feedstocks.  The economic outlook improved when, on January 3, 2013, President Obama signed into law the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, which reinstated tax credits of $1.00 per gallon for the production of renewable diesel and $.50 per gallon for the production of qualified alternative fuels. The Act applies to 2013 production, but also retroactively reinstated the credits for 2012. Dynamic Fuels or its owners will receive approximately $23 million for 2012 production of diesel plus $.50 per gallon for a portion of the renewable naphtha produced during 2012.
	In conjunction with specific provisions of the retroactive reinstatement of the tax credits, each partner will receive $10 million of their total portion of the 2012 tax credits as a refund directly from the IRS. Through December 31, 2013 we have collected approximately $9 million of such credits with the remaining balance included in taxes receivable on the consolidated balance sheets.  The refunds were recorded by Dynamic Fuels as repayment of working capital loans. Each partner has remaining outstanding working capital loans to Dynamic Fuels of $11.6 million. The remaining loans  are non-interest bearing and do not have a stated term but will be repaid to each partner upon Dynamic Fuels generating sufficient operating cash flow.
	On February 25, 2013 the Dynamic Fuels management committee approved a resolution to replace the HI catalyst at a total cost of $7.3 million.  Installation of the new catalyst was completed by June 28, 2013. The plant has remained in standby mode pending agreement by Syntroleum and Tyson as to the appropriate conditions under which to resume production.    While the plant is ready for commercial operation, the Dynamic Fuels management committee has not determined a re-start date.  As of the date these consolidated financial statements were issued, the plant continues to be in stand-by mode.
	Accounting standards for equity method investments require us to consider all factors that may indicate that the value of our investment in Dynamic Fuels is less than the amount resulting from the application of the equity method reported in our consolidated balance sheet. If such a value deficiency has occurred and is other than temporary, it must be recognized currently. Our management has considered Dynamic Fuel’s financial condition, current status and outlook and has concluded that should a current valuation deficiency exist, it does not meet the “other than temporary” criteria of the accounting standards. When the Company and Tyson reach an agreement to resume production, for which there is no assurance, should the plant upgrades and improvements fail to improve operational performance or industry economics make the plant uneconomic to operate, should the Asset Purchase Agreement not be approved, or should we be required to seek protection under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code or similar relief, we may be required to assess the recoverability of our investment in and loans to Dynamic Fuels.
	During the years ended September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011, we recognized revenue associated with our technical services agreement between us and Dynamic Fuels in the amount of $469,000,  $6,017,000 and $1,895,000, respectively. This revenue is reported in “Technical services from Dynamic Fuels, LLC” and “Royalties from Dynamic Fuels, LLC Plant Production” in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. During 2012, $3.7 million in technical service revenue from Dynamic Fuels was recognized for services that had been provided prior to 2012.
	Dynamic Fuels, LLC 2013 and 2012 Audited Financials (in thousands):
	Balance Sheet	30-Sep-13		30-Sep-12
	Cash and Current Assets	$	9,727	$	9,337
	Inventory		3,297		17,509
	Property, Plant and Equipment and Other Assets		150,843		150,258
	Total Assets	$	163,867	$	177,104
	Accounts Payable	$	2,254	$	10,241
	Notes and Accounts Payable to Related Parties		21,057		29,976
	Long-Term Liabilities		100,060		100,051
	Total Liabilities		123,371		140,268
	Total Members’ Equity		40,496		36,836
	Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity	$	163,867	$	177,104
		For the Year Ended September 30, 2013		For the Year Ended September 30, 2012		For the Year Ended September 30, 2011
	Revenue	$	46,340	$	166,986	$	127,069
	Cost of Goods Sold and Operating Expenses		47,454		179,550		151,341
	General and Administrative Expenses		956		1,595		2,516
	Loss from Operations		-2,070		-14,159		-26,788
	Other Income (Expense)		-1,170		-2,086		-2,548
	Net Loss	$	-3,240	$	-16,245	$	-29,336

Deferred_Revenue

Deferred Revenue	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred Revenue [Abstract]	'
Deferred Revenue	'
	5. DEFERRED REVENUE
	License fees received for which the criteria for revenue recognition have not been met totaled $13,365,000 and $15,612,000 at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  We entered into these license agreements granting parties the right to use certain of our patent rights and technical information to design, construct, operate, and maintain licensed facilities.  In accordance with ASC 605, Revenue Recognition, we recorded a portion of the license fees paid to us pursuant to license agreements as deferred income because the earning process was not complete with respect to the license fees so deferred.  The portion of the license recorded as deferred income were subject to offset and/or indemnity obligations in the event that the licenses completed construction of facilities prior to the expiration of the license agreements.
	In August 2000, we signed a non-exclusive license agreement with the Commonwealth of Australia, granting the Commonwealth the right to utilize the Syntroleum® Process. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, we had a remaining license agreement with the Commonwealth of Australia that includes credits against future license fees earned in Australia in the amount of AUD $15,000,000. This license has been recorded as deferred revenue of US $13,310,000 and US $15,557,000 as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. This license expires in 2019. The license agreement is denominated in Australian dollars and is subject to changes in foreign currency. During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011, the foreign currency effect on our deferred revenues was a change of $2,247,000,  $(296,000) and $(17,000), respectively, as a result of changes in the exchange rate between the United States and Australian dollars.

Common_Stock_And_Warrant_Sale_

Common Stock And Warrant Sale And Common Stock Purchase Agreements (Imported)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Common Stock And Warrant Sale And Common Stock Purchase Agreements [Abstract]	'
Common Stock And Warrant Sale And Common Stock Purchase Agreements	'
	6. STOCK AND WARRANT SALE AND COMMON STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENTS
	Common Stock Offering. On July 6, 2011, the Company closed the issuance and sale of 1,590,000 shares of its common stock and accompanying warrants to purchase a total of 795,000 shares of common stock. A combination of one share of common stock and a five year warrant to purchase five shares of common stock was sold in the offering for a combined public offering price of $15.80 per share, less underwriting discounts and commissions payable by the Company. The black-scholes valuation of the warrants granted was $11,614,000. The underwriter, JMP Securities LLC, purchased the common stock and warrants at a discounted price of $14.90 per combination, representing a 5.7% discount to the public offering price. Cash proceeds received by the Company, after the payment of underwriter commission and expenses and offering expenses, were approximately $23,538,000.

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'
Stockholders' Equity	'
	7. STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
	Tyson. As an incentive to Tyson for entering into the Dynamic Fuels joint venture, Tyson received warrants to buy the Company’s common stock. The warrants are allocated in three tranches. The first tranche of 425,000 shares was awarded upon signing of the LLC Agreement, Feedstock and Master License Agreements in June 2007. The Warrant Agreement provides that the second tranche of 250,000 shares will be issued upon sanctioning of the second plant and the third tranche of 150,000 shares will be issued upon sanctioning of the third plant, provided that Tyson has at least a 10% interest in Dynamic Fuels. The exercise price of the first tranche of 425,000 warrants is $28.70 per share, which was the ten-day average closing price prior to the signing of the above referenced agreements on June 22, 2007. The exercise price of the second and third tranches of warrants will be the ten-day average closing price prior to the sanctioning of plants 2 or 3. Vesting requires that if on the anniversary of the first plant commercial operations date, Tyson remains at least a 10% equity owner in Dynamic Fuels (in the case of the first tranche) and in the applicable plant (in the case of the second and third tranches), and that each plant has commenced commercial operation. Commercial operation is defined as the date on which the Plant achieves operations for commercial purposes after the completion of commissioning and satisfaction of performance tests. For purposes of the Warrant Agreement dated June 22, 2007, the First Plant Commercial Operations Date as defined in the Warrant Agreement was deemed to be June 27, 2012. The warrants will expire if not exercised by June 27, 2014. If 25% or more of the project cost for the third plant is debt financed, then the third warrant tranche will not vest. In the event that Tyson owns a 90% or greater interest in Dynamic Fuels the number of shares subject to the second and third warrant tranche doubles subject to a limitation that Tyson will not receive pursuant to all tranches warrants for stock equal to or more than 20% of the outstanding shares of Syntroleum common stock. In the event Tyson defaults by not paying its capital contributions to the plant, Tyson loses the warrants for such plant. These warrants are accounted for in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 505 Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees. Warrants granted to non-employees that are tied to performance criteria are expensed at the time the performance goals are met.
	On June 30, 2008, the Company and Tyson entered into a Warrant Agreement providing for the issuance of warrants to Tyson to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock in exchange for credit support relating to the obligations of Dynamic Fuels. Dynamic Fuels received approval from the Louisiana State Bond Commission to issue up to $100 million of certain Gulf Opportunity Tax Exempt Bonds originated by the Louisiana Public Facilities Authority (the “Bonds”). On October 21, 2008 the issuance of the Bonds occurred and required a letter of credit in the amount of $100 million as collateral for Dynamic Fuels’ obligations under the Bonds. Tyson agreed under the terms of the Warrant Agreement to provide credit support for the entire $100 million Bond issue for which we issued Tyson warrants to purchase 800,000 shares of our common stock for $0.10 per share. The warrants were exercised on April 16, 2009. These warrants are accounted for in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 505 Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees. The measurement date is the date of issuance, October 21, 2008. We valued the warrants at $8.6 million and have recorded them as an additional cost of our Investment in and Loans to Dynamic Fuels on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. This additional cost in our investment results in a difference between our cost and our share of the underlying equity of Dynamic Fuels. We amortize the basis difference to Earnings or Loss from Dynamic Investment in our Consolidated Statement of Operations over the life of the Bonds, 25 years.
	Pursuant to two registration rights agreements, we have granted Tyson demand and piggyback registration rights with respect to the shares of common stock issuable pursuant to the warrants.

StockBased_Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Stock-Based Compensation	'
	8. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
	Our share-based incentive plans permit us to grant restricted stock units, restricted stock, incentive or non-qualified stock options, and certain other instruments to employees, directors, consultants and advisors of the Company. Certain stock options and restricted stock units vest in accordance with the achievement of specific company objectives. The exercise price of options granted under the plan must be at least equal to the fair value of our common stock on the date of grant. All options granted vest at a rate determined by the Nominating and Compensation Committee of our board of directors and are exercisable for varying periods, not to exceed ten years. Shares issued under the plans upon option exercise or stock unit conversion are generally issued from authorized, but previously unissued shares.
	As of December 31, 2013,  560,997 shares of common stock were available for grant under our current plan. We are authorized to issue up to 1,133,637, plan equivalent shares of common stock in relation to stock options or restricted shares outstanding or available for grant under the plans.
	Stock Options
	The number and weighted average exercise price of stock options outstanding are as follows:
			Shares Under Stock Options		Weighted Average Price Per Share
	OUTSTANDING AT DECEMBER 31, 2012		640,454		$	18.70
	Granted at market price		-			-
	Exercised		-			-
	Expired, forfeited, cancelled or repurchased		-67,814			15.58
	OUTSTANDING AT DECEMBER 31, 2013		572,640		$	19.08
	The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 2013:
	Options Outstanding										Options Exercisable
	Range of Exercise Price						Options Outstanding	Weighted Average Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	Options Exercisable	Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share
	$	6.60	-	$	6.60		429,423	$	6.60	4.61	429,423	$	6.60
	$	14.10	-	$	14.10		5,000		14.10	7.58	5,000		14.10
	$	28.90	-	$	28.90		50,625		28.90	2.94	50,625		28.90
	$	31.90	-	$	68.80		62,523		66.66	0.9	62,523		66.66
	$	80.30	-	$	96.70		22,569		94.29	1.88	22,569		94.29
	$	105.10	-	$	105.10		2,500		105.10	1.59	2,500		105.10
							572,640	$	19.08		572,640	$	19.08
	A total of 572,640 stock options with a weighted average exercise price of $19.08 were outstanding and fully vested at December 31, 2013. A total of 640,454 and 361,570 stock options with a weighted average exercise price of $18.70 and $6.70 were outstanding at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively, which had not vested.
	There were no stock options granted for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012. During 2011, 5,000 shares were granted.
	Non-cash compensation cost related to stock and stock options and restricted stock recognized during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $475,000,  $508,000 and $562,000, respectively.
	The total intrinsic value of options exercised (i.e. the difference between the market price on the exercise date and the price paid by the employee to exercise the options) during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012  and 2011 was $0,  $36,000 and $76,000, respectively. The total amount of cash received in 2013, 2012 and 2011 by the Company from the exercise of these options was $0, $63,000, and $35,000 respectively. As of December 31, 2013 there was no aggregate intrinsic value of stock options that were fully vested. The remaining weighted average contractual term for options exercisable is approximately 4.2 years. As of December 31, 2013, all stock options have vested and all related compensation costs has been recognized.
	Restricted Stock
	We also grant common stock and restricted common stock units to employees and directors. These awards are recorded at their fair values on the date of grant and compensation cost is recorded using graded vesting over the expected term. The weighted average grant date fair value of common stock and restricted stock units granted during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012, and 2011 was $4.00 per share (total grant date fair value of $350,000)  $9.60 per share (total grant date fair value of $350,000), and $21.80 per share (total grant date fair value of $429,000), respectively. As of December 31, 2013, all restricted stock units had vested. The total fair value of restricted stock units vested during December 31, 2013, 2012  and 2011 was $350,000,  $378,000 and $499,000, respectively. The following summary reflects restricted stock unit activity and related information.
			Shares / Units		Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
	NONVESTED AT DECEMBER 31, 2012		-		$	-
	Granted		87,500			4.00
	Vested or Exercised		-87,500			4.00
	Expired or forfeited		-			-
	NONVESTED AT DECEMBER 31, 2013		-		$	-

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	9. INCOME TAXES
	We had federal income tax net operating loss (“NOL”) carry-forwards of approximately $380 million at December 31, 2013. Our NOLs generally begin to expire in 2018.
	We recognize the tax benefit of NOL carry-forwards as assets to the extent that management concludes that the realization of the NOL carry-forwards is “more likely than not.” Realization of the future tax benefits is dependent on the Company’s ability to generate taxable income within the carry-forward period. The Company’s management has concluded that, based on the historical results of the Company, a valuation allowance should be provided for the entire balance of the net deferred tax asset.
	We have not recorded an income tax provision for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 or 2011. This differs from the amount of income tax benefit that would result from applying the 35 percent statutory federal income tax rate to the pretax loss due to the increase in the valuation allowance in each period. The valuation allowance increased by approximately $5,587,000,  $404,000, and $6,529,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Deferred taxes arise primarily from NOL carry-forwards and the recognition of revenues and expenses in different periods for financial and tax purposes.
	Deferred taxes consist of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Deferred tax assets:
	NOL carry-forwards	$	144,526	$	137,870
	Research and development credit		8,085		8,085
	Deferred revenue		3,808		3,808
	Stock-based compensation		2,831		2,831
	Other		1,276		2,375
			160,526		154,969
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Investments		-4,889		-4,953
	Other		-423		-389
	Net deferred tax asset before valuation allowance		155,214		149,627
	Valuation allowance		-155,214		-149,627
	Net deferred tax assets	$	-	$	-
	Open tax years are December 31, 2011 forward for both federal and state jurisdictions, except for years in which net operating losses originated and are subsequently utilized.

Commitments_And_Contingencies

Commitments And Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments And Contingencies [Abstract]	'
Commitments And Contingencies	'
	10. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
	We have entered into a non-cancelable operating lease for office space that expires in 2014. Rental expense was $94,000 in 2013, $99,000 in 2012, and $181,000 in 2011. Total future minimum lease payments under this agreement as of December 31, 2013 are approximately $23,000.
	We have entered into employment agreements, which provide severance benefits to several key employees. Commitments under these agreements totaled approximately $2,121,000 at December 31, 2013. Expense is not recognized until an employee is severed.
	During the quarter ending March 31, 2014, the Company agreed to accept effective responsibility for 50%, or up to $50 million, of any liability incurred by Tyson in connection with its guarantee of $100 million of Bonds issued by Dynamic Fuels.  Tyson’s guarantee is secured by its letter of credit as described in Note 7.  The holders of the Bonds are entitled to draw upon the letter of credit in the event of a default under the Bonds.  Dynamic Fuels is not currently in default under the Bonds.  The Company’s obligation will continue until the Bonds, which are due in 2033, are repaid.  The Company had previously issued warrants to Tyson in exchange for Tyson’s agreement to provide the letter of credit, as described in Note 7.
	The Company agreed to accept this obligation in order to help resolve disagreements between the Company and Tyson regarding the guarantee described above which had delayed the financial reporting for Dynamic Fuels, and to avoid the possibility that an ongoing dispute with Tyson could delay or prevent the Company from completing the proposed Asset Sale to REG Synthetic.  Pursuant to the proposed asset sale, REG Synthetic has agreed to assume this obligation.  Management has not yet determined the fair value associated with the guarantee.
	Three lawsuits challenging the Asset Sale have been filed. First, on December 26, 2013, Daniel Baxter, on behalf of himself and the public stockholders of Syntroleum, filed a putative class action complaint in the District Court of Tulsa County, State of Oklahoma. Second, on December 30, 2013, Philip Crawley, on behalf of himself and the public stockholders of Syntroleum, filed a putative class action complaint in the District Court of Tulsa County, State of Oklahoma. Third, on January 10, 2014, George Kashouh and Thomas Victor, on behalf of themselves and the public stockholders of Syntroleum, filed a putative class action complaint in the District Court of Tulsa, State of Oklahoma. All of the lawsuits name as defendants Syntroleum, each member of Syntroleum’s board of directors, REG, and REG Synthetic; the Baxter lawsuit also names Syntroleum’s Principal Financial Officer as a defendant. On January 14, 2014, the court issued an order consolidating the first two suits, and on February 12, 2014, the third suit was consolidated.  On January 22, 2014, the plaintiffs filed an amended consolidated petition alleging that (1) Syntroleum’s directors breached their fiduciary duties in connection with entering into the Asset Purchase Agreement, as publicly disclosed on December 17, 2013, by failing to maximize stockholder value, agreeing to onerous and unreasonable deal protection devices and failing to act in accordance with their duties of care, loyalty, and good faith, (2) Syntroleum, REG and REG Synthetic aided and abetted those alleged breaches of fiduciary duties, and (3) the combined proxy statement/prospectus omits material information regarding the proposed transaction and is otherwise misleading. Based on these allegations, the amended petition seeks to enjoin the Asset Sale, to obtain other related declaratory and injunctive relief (including rescission), and to recover the costs of the action, including reasonable attorneys’ fees.  The Baxter plaintiffs filed an Emergency Motion and Memorandum in Support to Expedite Discovery and Shorten Prescribed Time Period for Defendants to Respond to Discovery together with their original complaint, which motion was heard on January 6, 2014 and not granted.  On January 24, 2014, the original judge assigned to the consolidated matter recused herself and the matter was re-assigned to another judge.  No further hearing dates have been set in connection with the consolidated lawsuits.   On March 7, 2014, the plaintiffs in the consolidated lawsuit and Syntroleum agreed to certain supplemental disclosures in the proxy statement/prospectus and, accordingly, that the plaintiffs would not seek a preliminary injunction to enjoin a vote by Syntroleum’s stockholders on the Asset Sale on the basis of the disclosures contained in the proxy statement/prospectus.
	The Company is involved in certain claims and legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. Management believes there will not be any liability from the resolution of these proceedings and any liability will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, future results of operations or liquidity.

Significant_Customers

Significant Customers	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Significant Customers [Abstract]	'
Significant Customers	'
	11. SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMERS
	The Company’s revenue is derived from significant customers. Three customers, Dynamic Fuels, Sasol Technology (Pty) Ltd. (“Sasol”) and Sasol (USA) Corporation (“Sasol USA”), made up 97% of revenue in 2013, with Dynamic Fuels and Sasol making up 97% of revenue in 2012, and 99% of revenue in 2011.    See Note 4, “Investment in and Loans to Dynamic Fuels” for further information regarding revenue transactions with Dynamic Fuels.

Fair_Value_Disclosures

Fair Value Disclosures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Disclosures	'
	12. FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES
	The Company’s short-term financial instruments consist of cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued expenses. The carrying amounts of these financial instruments approximate fair value because of their short-term maturities. The Company does not hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes nor does it hold or issue interest rate or leveraged derivative financial instruments.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Segment Information	'
	13. SEGMENT INFORMATION
	We apply FASB ASC Topic 280, Segment Reporting. Previously, our reportable business segments have been identified based on the differences in products or services provided. As discussed in Note 4, we classified the research and development component as discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011. We now operate only one reportable segment.

Quarterly_Data

Quarterly Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Data [Abstract]	'
Quarterly Data	'
	14. QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED)
		Quarter Ended
		March 31,		June 30,		September 30,		December 31,
		(in thousands, except per share data)
	2013
	Revenues	$	899	$	408	$	373	$	277
	Operating income (loss)		-2,009		-1,719		-2,483		-3,127
	Income (loss)  from Dynamic Fuels investment		6,707		-1,498		-3,252		-3,526
	Net income (loss) from continuing operations		4,634		-1,286		-5,999		-5,993
	Net income (loss) from discontinued operations		6,391		-		-		-
	Net income (loss)		11,025		-1,286		-5,999		-5,993
	Basic and diluted EPS
	Continuing operations	$	0.48	$	-0.13	$	-0.6	$	-0.6
	Discontinued operations	$	0.67	$	0.00	$	0.00	$	0.00
	Net income (loss)	$	1.15	$	-0.13	$	-0.6	$	-0.6
		Quarter Ended
		March 31,		June 30,		September 30,		December 31,
		(in thousands, except per share data)
	2012
	Revenues	$	1,250	$	10,810	$	4,342	$	1,124
	Operating income (loss)		-786		8,763		2,037		-797
	Loss from Dynamic Fuels investments		-830		-2,155		-2,752		-4,275
	Net income (loss) from continuing operations		-1,923		6,956		-1,037		-5,059
	Net income (loss) from discontinued operations		-10		-9		-9		-10
	Net income (loss)		-1,933		6,947		-1,046		-5,069
	Basic and diluted EPS
	Continuing operations	$	-0.2	$	0.70	$	-0.11	$	-0.5
	Discontinued operations	$	0.00	$	0.00	$	0.00	$	0.00
	Net income (loss)	$	-0.2	$	0.70	$	-0.11	$	-0.5
	Our revenues and costs are the result of projects described in these financial statements and are not from a mature, more predictable business. These projects may affect the comparability of the periods presented.

Summary_Of_Significant_Account1

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Consolidation	'
	Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Syntroleum Corporation and our majority-owned subsidiaries. All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated. Companies in which we own a 20 percent to 50 percent interest, but in which we do not have a controlling interest are accounted for by the equity method. We own 50 percent and have a non-controlling interest in Dynamic Fuels.  The entity is accounted for under the equity method and is not required to be consolidated in our financial statements; however, our share of the Dynamic Fuels results of operations activities is reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and the subsidiary’s summarized financial information is reported in Note 4, “Investment in and Loans to Dynamic Fuels, LLC”. The carrying value of our investment in Dynamic Fuels is reflected in “Investment in and Loans to Dynamic Fuels, LLC” in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	The consolidated financial statements for all prior periods have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the April 11, 2013 10-for-1 reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock, which allowed the Company to regain compliance with Nasdaq’s minimum price rule as of April 26, 2013.   As a result of the reverse split, each ten (10) outstanding shares of pre-split common stock were automatically combined into one (1) share of post-split common stock.  Fractional shares received cash and proportional adjustments were made to the Company’s outstanding stock options and other equity awards and to the Company’s equity compensation plans to reflect the reverse stock split.  The consolidated financial statements for all prior periods have been retroactively adjusted to reflect this stock split for both common stock issued and options outstanding.
Revenue Recognition	'
	Revenue Recognition
	We recognize revenues from technical services provided as such services are rendered. We recognize revenue for royalty fees upon production of finished product by the licensee.
	We recognized revenues from the transfer of technology documentation to customers or through licensing structures. Any deposits or advance payments for the technology documentation is recorded as deferred revenue in the consolidated balance sheets until recognized as revenue in the consolidated statement of operations. The Company recognizes revenue on the transfer of technology documentation upon the physical transfer of the technology documentation by the Company to the customer pursuant to the terms of the specific agreement.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	'
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less, primarily in the form of money market instruments. The Company places its temporary cash investments with high credit quality financial institutions. At times such investments may be in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance limit.
Restricted Cash	'
	Restricted Cash
	Restricted cash consisted of cash held in an escrow account for the prepayment of operations and invoices for a contractual project. The account was also recorded as a liability in current deposits on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2012.
Accounts Receivable	'
	Accounts Receivable
	The majority of our accounts receivable is due from technical service agreements. These accounts are typically due within 30 days and are stated as amounts due from customers. Accounts outstanding longer than the contractual payment terms are considered past due. We write off accounts receivable when they become uncollectible. Management determines accounts to be uncollectible when we have used all reasonable means of collection and settlement. Management believes that all amounts included in accounts receivable at December 31, 2013 and 2012 will be collected and therefore no allowance for uncollectible accounts has been recorded.
Property and Equipment	'
	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Maintenance, repairs and replacement of minor items are expensed as incurred and major additions, expansions and betterments to physical properties are capitalized. When assets are sold or retired, the cost and accumulated depreciation related to those assets are removed from the accounts and any gain or loss is recognized. Depreciation of property and equipment is computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of three to seven years. Property and equipment consists of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,			December 31,
		2013			2012
	Furniture and office equipment	$	495		$	441
	Leasehold improvements		5			5
			500			446
	Less - accumulated depreciation		-423			-388
		$	77		$	58
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities and on net operating loss carry-forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws in effect or that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. The Company records a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.
Asset Retirement Obligations	'
	Asset Retirement Obligations
	We follow FASB ASC Topic 410, Asset Retirement and Environmental Obligations, which requires entities to record the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it is incurred and a corresponding increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. The standard requires that we record the discounted fair value of the retirement obligation as a liability at the time the plants are constructed. The asset retirement obligations consisted primarily of costs associated with the future plant dismantlement of our pilot plant. As the pilot plant was directly related to research and development activities and had been expensed accordingly, no corresponding amount was capitalized as part of the related property’s carrying amount. The liability accretes over time with a charge to accretion expense. Based on a change in expected life of the pilot plant, no accretion expense was incurred in 2013 or 2012. See Footnote  3 for additional information.
Other Assets	'
	Other Assets
	Other assets include costs associated with patents and are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated period of benefit, ranging from fifteen to seventeen years. All costs are capitalized, and amortization begins upon initial costs incurred. Amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $145,000,  $141,000 and $137,000, respectively. We periodically evaluate the recoverability of intangible assets and take into account events or circumstances that warrant revised estimates of useful lives or that indicate that impairment exists. Future amortization expense for patents as of December 31, 2013 is estimated to be $145,000 per year through 2020. Patent costs consist of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,			December 31,
		2013			2012
	Patents	$	2,416		$	2,226
	Less - accumulated amortization		-1,304			-1,203
		$	1,112		$	1,023
Impairment of Assets	'
	Impairment of Assets
	We follow the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 360, Property, Plant and Equipment, for assets. Management reviews assets for impairment when certain events have occurred or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset may be impaired. An asset is considered to be impaired when the estimated undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset. The impairment provision is based on the excess of carrying value over fair value.
Accounting for Guarantees	'
	Accounting for Guarantees
	We follow the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 460, Guarantees for any guarantees entered into after December 2002. Under ASC Topic 460, we are required to record a liability for the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantees.
Stock-Based Compensation	'
	Stock-Based Compensation
	Employee Stock-Based Compensation. We account for stock-based compensation in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation – Stock Based. Under the fair value recognition provisions of this statement, share-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized as expense over the applicable vesting period of the stock award (generally three years) using the straight line method.
	Non-Employee Stock-Based Compensation. We also grant stock-based incentives to certain non-employees. These stock based incentives are accounted for in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 505 – Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees. Stock awards that are tied to performance criteria are expensed at the time the performance goals are met.
Earnings Per Share	'
	Earnings Per Share
	Basic earnings (losses) per common share were computed by dividing net loss by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted earnings per common share for each of the three years ended December 31 are calculated by dividing net loss by weighted-average common shares outstanding during the period plus dilutive potential common shares, which are determined as follows:
		Year ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
		(in thousands)
	Basic weighted-average shares	9,932		9,835		8,977
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options	-		-		-
	Dilutive weighted-average shares	9,932		9,835		8,977
	The table below includes information related to stock options, warrants and restricted stock that were outstanding at December 31 of each respective year, but have been excluded from the computation of weighted-average stock options due to (i) the option exercise price exceeding the twelve-month weighted-average market price of our common shares or (ii) their inclusion would have been anti-dilutive to our loss per share.
		Year ended December 31,
		2013			2012		2011
	Options and warrants (in thousands)		2,360			1,974		2,597
	Weighted-average exercise price of options and warrants	$	25.69		$	30.00	$	24.90
	Average market price of common shares	$	4.90		$	7.90	$	14.60
Defined Contribution Plan - 401(k)	'
	Defined Contribution Plan - 401(k)
	We sponsor a defined contribution plan, named the Syntroleum 401(k) Plan (the “401(k) Plan”), covering virtually all of our employees who have met the eligibility requirements. Our employees may participate in the 401(k) Plan upon employment. Participants become eligible for matching and profit sharing contributions upon employment on the last day of the 401(k) Plan quarter.
	We contribute a matching contribution equal to 50 percent of employees’ contributions quarterly in the form of shares of our common stock. No employee purchase of our stock is permitted. We recorded expense of $125,000,  $129,000 and $137,000 from issuing 27,498,  19,942 and 12,120 shares of Syntroleum Stock for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, of which 10,197 shares were issued in January 2014.
Use of Estimates	'
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Some of the more significant estimates made by management include, but are not limited to, the valuation of stock-based compensation, estimates for accrued liabilities and estimates for asset retirement obligations. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
Foreign Currency Transactions	'
	Foreign Currency Transactions
	All of our subsidiaries use the U.S. dollar for their functional currency. Assets and liabilities denominated in other currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the rate of exchange in effect at the balance sheet date. Transaction gains and losses that arise from exchange rate fluctuations applicable to transactions denominated in a currency other than the U.S. dollar are included in the consolidated results of operations as incurred.

Summary_Of_Significant_Account2

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Property And Equipment	'
		December 31,			December 31,
		2013			2012
	Furniture and office equipment	$	495		$	441
	Leasehold improvements		5			5
			500			446
	Less - accumulated depreciation		-423			-388
		$	77		$	58
Schedule Of Patent Costs	'
		December 31,			December 31,
		2013			2012
	Patents	$	2,416		$	2,226
	Less - accumulated amortization		-1,304			-1,203
		$	1,112		$	1,023
Schedule Of Weighted Average Number Of Shares	'
		Year ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
		(in thousands)
	Basic weighted-average shares	9,932		9,835		8,977
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Stock options	-		-		-
	Dilutive weighted-average shares	9,932		9,835		8,977
Schedule Of Anti-dilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share	'
		Year ended December 31,
		2013			2012		2011
	Options and warrants (in thousands)		2,360			1,974		2,597
	Weighted-average exercise price of options and warrants	$	25.69		$	30.00	$	24.90
	Average market price of common shares	$	4.90		$	7.90	$	14.60

Investment_In_And_Loans_To_Dyn1

Investment In And Loans To Dynamic Fuels (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Investment In And Loans To Dynamic Fuels [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Equity Method Investments, Balance Sheet	'
	Balance Sheet	30-Sep-13		30-Sep-12
	Cash and Current Assets	$	9,727	$	9,337
	Inventory		3,297		17,509
	Property, Plant and Equipment and Other Assets		150,843		150,258
	Total Assets	$	163,867	$	177,104
	Accounts Payable	$	2,254	$	10,241
	Notes and Accounts Payable to Related Parties		21,057		29,976
	Long-Term Liabilities		100,060		100,051
	Total Liabilities		123,371		140,268
	Total Members’ Equity		40,496		36,836
	Total Liabilities and Members’ Equity	$	163,867	$	177,104
Schedule Of Equity Method Investments, Statement Of Operations	'
		For the Year Ended September 30, 2013		For the Year Ended September 30, 2012		For the Year Ended September 30, 2011
	Revenue	$	46,340	$	166,986	$	127,069
	Cost of Goods Sold and Operating Expenses		47,454		179,550		151,341
	General and Administrative Expenses		956		1,595		2,516
	Loss from Operations		-2,070		-14,159		-26,788
	Other Income (Expense)		-1,170		-2,086		-2,548
	Net Loss	$	-3,240	$	-16,245	$	-29,336

StockBased_Compensation_Tables

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Number And Weighted Average Exercise Price Of Stock Options Outstanding	'
			Shares Under Stock Options		Weighted Average Price Per Share
	OUTSTANDING AT DECEMBER 31, 2012		640,454		$	18.70
	Granted at market price		-			-
	Exercised		-			-
	Expired, forfeited, cancelled or repurchased		-67,814			15.58
	OUTSTANDING AT DECEMBER 31, 2013		572,640		$	19.08
Summary Of Stock Options Outstanding By Exercise Price Range	'
	Options Outstanding										Options Exercisable
	Range of Exercise Price						Options Outstanding	Weighted Average Exercise Price		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	Options Exercisable	Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share
	$	6.60	-	$	6.60		429,423	$	6.60	4.61	429,423	$	6.60
	$	14.10	-	$	14.10		5,000		14.10	7.58	5,000		14.10
	$	28.90	-	$	28.90		50,625		28.90	2.94	50,625		28.90
	$	31.90	-	$	68.80		62,523		66.66	0.9	62,523		66.66
	$	80.30	-	$	96.70		22,569		94.29	1.88	22,569		94.29
	$	105.10	-	$	105.10		2,500		105.10	1.59	2,500		105.10
							572,640	$	19.08		572,640	$	19.08
Summary Of Restricted Stock Unit Activity	'
			Shares / Units		Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
	NONVESTED AT DECEMBER 31, 2012		-		$	-
	Granted		87,500			4.00
	Vested or Exercised		-87,500			4.00
	Expired or forfeited		-			-
	NONVESTED AT DECEMBER 31, 2013		-		$	-

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Deferred Taxes	'
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Deferred tax assets:
	NOL carry-forwards	$	144,526	$	137,870
	Research and development credit		8,085		8,085
	Deferred revenue		3,808		3,808
	Stock-based compensation		2,831		2,831
	Other		1,276		2,375
			160,526		154,969
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Investments		-4,889		-4,953
	Other		-423		-389
	Net deferred tax asset before valuation allowance		155,214		149,627
	Valuation allowance		-155,214		-149,627
	Net deferred tax assets	$	-	$	-

Quarterly_Data_Tables

Quarterly Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Data [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Quarterly Data	'
		Quarter Ended
		March 31,		June 30,		September 30,		December 31,
		(in thousands, except per share data)
	2013
	Revenues	$	899	$	408	$	373	$	277
	Operating income (loss)		-2,009		-1,719		-2,483		-3,127
	Income (loss)  from Dynamic Fuels investment		6,707		-1,498		-3,252		-3,526
	Net income (loss) from continuing operations		4,634		-1,286		-5,999		-5,993
	Net income (loss) from discontinued operations		6,391		-		-		-
	Net income (loss)		11,025		-1,286		-5,999		-5,993
	Basic and diluted EPS
	Continuing operations	$	0.48	$	-0.13	$	-0.6	$	-0.6
	Discontinued operations	$	0.67	$	0.00	$	0.00	$	0.00
	Net income (loss)	$	1.15	$	-0.13	$	-0.6	$	-0.6
		Quarter Ended
		March 31,		June 30,		September 30,		December 31,
		(in thousands, except per share data)
	2012
	Revenues	$	1,250	$	10,810	$	4,342	$	1,124
	Operating income (loss)		-786		8,763		2,037		-797
	Loss from Dynamic Fuels investments		-830		-2,155		-2,752		-4,275
	Net income (loss) from continuing operations		-1,923		6,956		-1,037		-5,059
	Net income (loss) from discontinued operations		-10		-9		-9		-10
	Net income (loss)		-1,933		6,947		-1,046		-5,069
	Basic and diluted EPS
	Continuing operations	$	-0.2	$	0.70	$	-0.11	$	-0.5
	Discontinued operations	$	0.00	$	0.00	$	0.00	$	0.00
	Net income (loss)	$	-0.2	$	0.70	$	-0.11	$	-0.5

Business_And_Organization_Deta

Business And Organization (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Business And Organization [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$11,400,000	$15,909,000	$22,601,000	$12,513,000
Shares received in transaction	3,796,000,000	'	'	'
Cash balance requirement	3,200,000	'	'	'
Acquiror stock price triggering change in consideration	$12.91	'	'	'
Change in consideration calculation, numerator	$49,000,000	'	'	'
Dynamic Fuels, LLC [Member]	'	'	'	'
Business And Organization [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Non-controlling interest, ownership percentage	50.00%	'	'	'

Summary_Of_Significant_Account3

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Reverse stock split ratio	'	0.01	'	'
Accounts receivable, payment period	'	'30 days	'	'
Allowance for uncollectible accounts	'	$0	$0	'
Accretion expense	'	0	0	'
Intangible asset amortization expense	'	145	141	137
Estimated future amortization expense per year	'	145	'	'
Stock-based compensation. vesting period	'	'3 years	'	'
Employer match of employee contributions, percent	'	50.00%	'	'
Defined contribution plan, recorded expense	'	125	129	137
Defined contribution plan, shares issued	10,197	27,498	19,942	12,120
Accumulated deficit	'	($362,717)	($360,464)	'
Dynamic Fuels, LLC [Member]	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Equity interest, percent owned	'	50.00%	'	'
Minimum [Member]	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Useful life, property and equipment	'	'3 years	'	'
Useful life, intangible assets	'	'15 years	'	'
Maximum [Member]	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Useful life, property and equipment	'	'7 years	'	'
Useful life, intangible assets	'	'17 years	'	'

Summary_Of_Significant_Account4

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Property And Equipment) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property and equipment, gross	$500	$446
Less - accumulated depreciation	-423	-388
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT - at cost, net	77	58
Furniture And Office Equipment [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property and equipment, gross	495	441
Leasehold Improvements [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property and equipment, gross	$5	$5

Summary_Of_Significant_Account5

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Patent Costs) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'	'
Patents	$2,416	$2,226
Less - accumulated amortization	-1,304	-1,203
Patent costs, net	$1,112	$1,023

Summary_Of_Significant_Account6

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Weighted Average Number Of Shares) (Details)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'	'	'
Basic weighted-average shares	9,932	9,835	8,977
Diluted weighted-average shares	9,932	9,835	8,977

Summary_Of_Significant_Account7

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Anti-dilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'	'	'
Options and warrants (in thousands)	2,360	1,974	2,597
Weighted-average exercise prices of options and warrants	$25.69	$30	$24.90
Average market price of common shares	$4.90	$7.90	$14.60

Discontinued_Operations_Detail

Discontinued Operations (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Discontinued Operations [Abstract]	'	'	'
Research and development	$6,391	($38)	($27)
Sale of pilot plant	5,798	'	'
Gain on sale of pilot plant	$603	'	'

Investment_In_And_Loans_To_Dyn2

Investment In And Loans To Dynamic Fuels (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)

1 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

78 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

34 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

78 Months Ended

Jun. 28, 2013

Jun. 27, 2012

Jul. 13, 2007

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Sep. 30, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Jul. 13, 2007

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

lb

Geismar Facility [Member]

Geismar Facility [Member]

Dynamic Fuels, LLC [Member]

Tyson Foods, Inc [Member]

Tyson Foods, Inc [Member]

Tyson Foods, Inc [Member]

Tyson Foods, Inc [Member]

gal

gal

Unusual Risk or Uncertainty [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Current accounts receivable from Dynamic Fuels, LLC

'

'

'

'

'

$252,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Royalties from Dynamic Fuels, LLC plant production

'

'

'

'

'

789,000

'

921,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Equity interest, percent owned

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

50.00%

'

'

'

'

Total estimate of maximum exposure to loss

'

'

'

37,850,000

'

'

'

'

'

37,850,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Excess value of investment in Dynamic Fuels, LLC

'

'

'

7,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

7,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Capital contribution to joint venture

'

'

4,250,000

3,450,000

'

39,250,000

'

'

'

53,560,000

'

'

'

4,250,000

3,450,000

41,250,000

56,740,000

Working capital loan

'

'

'

7,540,000

'

14,000,000

'

'

'

7,540,000

'

'

'

'

7,540,000

14,000,000

7,540,000

Renewable fuels, production volume

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

66,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

Plant design production rate per year

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

75,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional equity contribution to joint venture

'

6,597,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Increase of price per pound of feedstock

'

0.01

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Feedstock available for purchase under agreement

'

1,100,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Tax credit per gallon of produced renewable diesel

'

'

'

1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Tax credit per gallon of produced alternative fuels

'

'

'

0.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Tax refund, receivable

'

'

'

988,000

'

'

'

'

'

988,000

'

'

23,000,000

'

'

'

'

Tax refund, receivable from IRS

'

'

'

'

'

10,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10,000,000

'

Income taxes receivable per gallon

'

'

'

0.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Income tax refunds received

'

'

'

9,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Noncurrent receivable from Dynamic Fuels

'

'

'

11,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

11,600,000

'

'

'

'

11,600,000

'

11,600,000

HI Catalyst cost

7,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Technical services revenue from Dynamic Fuels, LLC

'

'

'

469,000

469,000

5,228,000

6,017,000

974,000

1,895,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Revenue recognized

'

'

'

'

'

$3,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Investment_In_And_Loans_To_Dyn3

Investment In And Loans To Dynamic Fuels (Schedule Of Equity Method Investments, Balance Sheet) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Investment In And Loans To Dynamic Fuels [Abstract]	'	'
Cash and Current Assets	$9,727	$9,337
Inventory	3,297	17,509
Property, Plant and Equipment and Other Assets	150,843	150,258
Total Assets	163,867	177,104
Accounts Payable	2,254	10,241
Notes and Accounts Payable to Related Parties	21,057	29,976
Long-Term Liabilities	100,060	100,051
Total Liabilities	123,371	140,268
Total Members' Equity	40,496	36,836
Total Liabilities and Members' Equity	$163,867	$177,104

Investment_In_And_Loans_To_Dyn4

Investment In And Loans To Dynamic Fuels (Schedule Of Equity Method Investments, Statement Of Operations) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Investment In And Loans To Dynamic Fuels [Abstract]	'	'	'
Revenue	$46,340	$166,986	$127,069
Cost of Goods Sold and Operating Expenses and General and Administrative	47,454	179,550	151,341
General and Administrative Expenses	956	1,595	2,516
Loss from Operations	-2,070	-14,159	-26,788
Other Income (Expense)	-1,170	-2,086	-2,548
Net Loss	($3,240)	($16,245)	($29,336)

Deferred_Revenue_Details

Deferred Revenue (Details)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	License Fees [Member]	License Fees [Member]	AUSTRALIA	AUSTRALIA	AUSTRALIA	AUSTRALIA	AUSTRALIA
	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)	AUD	AUD
Deferred Revenue Arrangement [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Deferred revenue	$13,365	$15,612	$13,310	$15,557	'	15,000	15,000
Foreign currency effect on deferred revenue	'	'	$2,247	($296)	($17)	'	'

Common_Stock_And_Warrant_Sale_1

Common Stock And Warrant Sale And Common Stock Purchase Agreements (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 06, 2011	Oct. 21, 2008
Common Stock And Warrant Sale And Common Stock Purchase Agreements [Abstract]	'	'
Shares issued	1,590,000	'
Warrants issued	795,000	800,000
Warrant maturity period	'5 years	'
Shares per warrant	5	'
Common stock, price per share	$15.80	$0.10
Fair value of warrants issued	$11,614	$8,600
Discounted stock, price per share	$14.90	'
Percentage discount for underwriter	5.70%	'
Proceeds from sales of common stock	$23,538	'

Stockholders_Equity_Details

Stockholders' Equity (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
	Jul. 06, 2011	Oct. 21, 2008	Jun. 30, 2007
Stockholders' Equity [Line Items]	'	'	'
Warrants issued	795,000	800,000	'
Exercise price of warrant	$15.80	$0.10	'
Minimum percentage ownership in joint venture to double share issuance	'	'	90.00%
Maximum ownership percentage to be issued to related party	'	'	20.00%
Fair value of warrants issued	$11,614,000	$8,600,000	'
Useful life of bonds	'	'25 years	'
Tyson Foods, Inc [Member]	'	'	'
Stockholders' Equity [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of tranches	'	'	3
Bond collateral	'	100,000,000	'
Tyson Foods, Inc [Member] | First Tranche [Member]	'	'	'
Stockholders' Equity [Line Items]	'	'	'
Warrants issued	'	'	425,000
Warrant exercise price calculation period	'	'	'10 days
Tyson Foods, Inc [Member] | Second Tranche [Member]	'	'	'
Stockholders' Equity [Line Items]	'	'	'
Warrants issued	'	'	250,000
Minimum percentage ownership of joint venture for issuance of warrants	'	'	10.00%
Exercise price of warrant	'	'	28.7
Warrant exercise price calculation period	'	'	'10 days
Tyson Foods, Inc [Member] | Third Tranche [Member]	'	'	'
Stockholders' Equity [Line Items]	'	'	'
Warrants issued	'	'	150,000
Minimum percentage ownership of joint venture for issuance of warrants	'	'	10.00%
Warrant exercise price calculation period	'	'	'10 days
Percentage project costs debt financed, resulting in cancellation of vesting	'	'	25.00%
Dynamic Fuels, LLC [Member]	'	'	'
Stockholders' Equity [Line Items]	'	'	'
Tax exempt bonds issued	'	100,000,000	'
Required collateral, letter of credit	'	$100,000,000	'

StockBased_Compensation_Narrat

Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Common stock available for grant	560,997	'	'
Shares authorized for issuance	1,133,637	'	'
Stock options outstanding	572,640	640,454	361,570
Stock options outstanding, weighted average exercise price	$19.08	$18.70	$6.70
Stock options granted	0	0	5,000
Non-cash compensation expense	$475,000	$508,000	$562,000
Total intrinsic value of options exercised	0	36,000	76,000
Proceeds from option exercises	0	63,000	35,000
Intrinsic value of fully vested options	0	'	'
Remaining weighted average contractual term for options exercisable	'4 years 2 months 12 days	'	'
Weighted average grant date fair value of common stock and restricted stock units granted	$4	$9.60	$21.80
Total grant date fair value	350,000	350,000	429,000
Total fair value of restricted stock units vested	$350,000	$378,000	$499,000
Maximum [Member]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Options granted exercisable for varying periods, number of years	'10 years	'	'

StockBased_Compensation_Number

Stock-Based Compensation (Number And Weighted Average Exercise Price Of Stock Options Outstanding) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'	'	'
Shares Under Stock Options, Outstanding At December 31, 2012	640,454	'	'
Shares Under Stock Options, Granted at market price	0	0	5,000
Shares Under Stock Options, Exercised	'	'	'
Shares Under Stock Options, Expired, forfeited, cancelled or repurchased	-67,814	'	'
Shares Under Stock Options, Outstanding At December 31, 2013	572,640	640,454	'
Weighted Average Price Per Share, Outstanding At December 31, 2012	$18.70	'	'
Weighted Average Price Per Share, Granted at market price	'	'	'
Weighted Average Price Per Share, Exercised	'	'	'
Weighted Average Price Per Share, Expired, forfeited, cancelled or repurchased	$15.58	'	'
Weighted Average Price Per Share, Outstanding At December 31, 2013	$19.08	$18.70	'

StockBased_Compensation_Summar

Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Stock Options Outstanding By Exercise Price Range) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Options Outstanding	572,640
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$19.08
Options Exercisable	572,640
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$19.08
Range Of Exercise Price, $6.60 - $6.60 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Options Outstanding Exercise Price, Lower range limit	$6.60
Options Outstanding Exercise Price, Upper range limit	$6.60
Options Outstanding	429,423
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$6.60
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	'4 years 7 months 10 days
Options Exercisable	429,423
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$6.60
Range Of Exercise Price, $14.10 - $14.10 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Options Outstanding Exercise Price, Lower range limit	$14.10
Options Outstanding Exercise Price, Upper range limit	$14.10
Options Outstanding	5,000
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$14.10
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	'7 years 6 months 29 days
Options Exercisable	5,000
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$14.10
Range Of Exercise Price, $28.90 - $28.90 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Options Outstanding Exercise Price, Lower range limit	$28.90
Options Outstanding Exercise Price, Upper range limit	$28.90
Options Outstanding	50,625
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$28.90
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	'2 years 11 months 9 days
Options Exercisable	50,625
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$28.90
Range Of Exercise Price, $31.90 - $68.80 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Options Outstanding Exercise Price, Lower range limit	$31.90
Options Outstanding Exercise Price, Upper range limit	$68.80
Options Outstanding	62,523
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$66.66
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	'10 months 24 days
Options Exercisable	62,523
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$66.66
Range Of Exercise Price, $80.30 - $96.70 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Options Outstanding Exercise Price, Lower range limit	$80.30
Options Outstanding Exercise Price, Upper range limit	$96.70
Options Outstanding	22,569
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$94.29
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	'1 year 10 months 17 days
Options Exercisable	22,569
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$94.29
Range Of Exercise Price, $105.10 - $105.10 [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]	'
Options Outstanding Exercise Price, Lower range limit	$105.10
Options Outstanding Exercise Price, Upper range limit	$105.10
Options Outstanding	2,500
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$105.10
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	'1 year 7 months 2 days
Options Exercisable	2,500
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share	$105.10

StockBased_Compensation_Summar1

Stock-Based Compensation (Summary Of Restricted Stock Unit Activity) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]	'	'	'
Shares / Units, Nonvested At December 31, 2012	'	'	'
Shares / Units, Granted	87,500	'	'
Shares / Units, Vested or Exercised	-87,500	'	'
Shares / Units, Expired or forfeited	'	'	'
Shares / Units, Nonvested At December 31, 2013	'	'	'
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Nonvested At December 31, 2012	'	'	'
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Granted	$4	$9.60	$21.80
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested or Exercised	$4	'	'
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Expired or forfeited	'	'	'
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Nonvested At December 31, 2013	'	'	'

Income_Taxes_Narrative_Details

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'	'	'
Federal income NOL carry-forwards	$380,000,000	'	'
NOL carry-forwards expiration	'2018	'	'
Federal statutory rate	35.00%	'	'
Valuation allowance increase (decrease)	$5,587,000	$404,000	$6,529,000

Income_Taxes_Schedule_Of_Defer

Income Taxes (Schedule Of Deferred Taxes) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Income Taxes [Abstract]	'	'
NOL carry-forwards	$144,526	$137,870
Research and development credit	8,085	8,085
Deferred revenue	3,808	3,808
Stock-based compensation	2,831	2,831
Other	1,276	2,375
Deferred tax assets	160,526	154,969
Investments	-4,889	-4,953
Other	-423	-389
Net deferred tax asset before valuation allowance	155,214	149,627
Valuation allowance	-155,214	-149,627
Net deferred tax assets	'	'

Commitments_And_Contingencies_

Commitments And Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
	claim			Scenario, Forecast [Member]	Scenario, Forecast [Member]
					Tyson Foods, Inc [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Lease expiration	'2014	'	'	'	'
Rental expense	$94,000	$99,000	$181,000	'	'
Total future minimum lease payments	23,000	'	'	'	'
Commitments under employment agreements, severance benefits	2,121,000	'	'	'	'
Joint venture, guaranty responsibility percentage	'	'	'	50.00%	'
Joint venture, guaranty responsibility amount	'	'	'	50,000,000	'
Guarantee of Dynamic Fuels bonds	'	'	'	'	$100,000,000
Number of claims filed	3	'	'	'	'

Significant_Customers_Details

Significant Customers (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
	customer
Significant Customers [Abstract]	'	'	'
Number of major customers	3	'	'
Percentage of revenue attriibuted to major customers	97.00%	97.00%	99.00%

Segment_Information_Details

Segment Information (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
	segment
Segment Information [Abstract]	'
Number of segments	1

Quarterly_Data_Details

Quarterly Data (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Quarterly Data [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Revenues	$277	$373	$408	$899	$1,124	$4,342	$10,810	$1,250	$1,957	$17,526	$4,214
Operating income (loss)	-3,127	-2,483	-1,719	-2,009	-797	2,037	8,763	-786	-9,338	9,217	-3,049
Income (loss) from Dynamic Fuels investment	-3,526	-3,252	-1,498	6,707	-4,275	-2,752	-2,155	-830	-1,569	-10,012	-13,880
Net income (loss) from continuing operations	-5,993	-5,999	-1,286	4,634	-5,059	-1,037	6,956	-1,923	-8,644	-1,063	-16,922
Net income (loss) from discontinued operations	'	'	'	6,391	-10	-9	-9	-10	6,391	-38	-27
Net income (loss)	($5,993)	($5,999)	($1,286)	$11,025	($5,069)	($1,046)	$6,947	($1,933)	($2,253)	($1,101)	($16,949)
Continuing operations	($0.60)	($0.60)	($0.13)	$0.48	($0.50)	($0.11)	$0.70	($0.20)	($0.87)	($0.11)	($1.89)
Discontinued operations	$0	$0	$0	$0.67	$0	$0	$0	$0	$0.64	'	'
Net income (loss)	($0.60)	($0.60)	($0.13)	$1.15	($0.50)	($0.11)	$0.70	($0.20)	($0.23)	($0.11)	($1.89)