Praxair 10-K 25 Feb 14 2013 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Billions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2014	Jun. 30, 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	'	'
Trading Symbol	'PX	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'PRAXAIR INC	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000884905	'	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'Yes	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	293,974,931	'
Entity Public Float	'	'	$34

Consolidated_Statements_of_Inc

Consolidated Statements of Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data in Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Income Statement [Abstract]	'		'		'
Sales	$11,925	[1]	$11,224	[1]	$11,252	[1]
Cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization	6,744		6,396		6,458
Selling, general and administrative	1,349		1,270		1,239
Depreciation and amortization	1,109		1,001		1,003
Research and development	98		98		90
Venezuela currency devaluation and other charges – net	32		65		1
Other income (expenses) – net	32		43		7
Operating Profit	2,625	[2]	2,437	[2]	2,468
Interest expense – net	178		141		145
Income Before Income Taxes and Equity Investments	2,447		2,296		2,323
Income taxes	649		586		641
Income Before Equity Investments	1,798		1,710		1,682
Income from equity investments	38		34		40
Net Income (Including Noncontrolling Interests)	1,836		1,744		1,722
Less: noncontrolling interests	-81		-52		-50
Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.	$1,755	[2]	$1,692	[2]	$1,672
Per Share Data – Praxair, Inc. Shareholders	'		'		'
Basic earnings per share (usd per share)	$5.94		$5.67		$5.53
Diluted earnings per share (usd per share)	$5.87		$5.61		$5.45
Weighted Average Shares Outstanding (000’s):	'		'		'
Basic shares outstanding (in shares)	295,523		298,316		302,237
Diluted shares outstanding (in shares)	298,965		301,845		306,722
[1]	Sales reflect external sales only. Intersegment Sales, primarily from North America to other segments, were not material.
[2]	2013 and 2012 include the impact of the following benefits/(charges) (see Notes 2, 5 & 11):

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
NET INCOME (INCLUDING NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS)	$1,836	$1,744	$1,722
Translation adjustments:	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-474	-13	-563
Income Taxes	27	17	29
Translation adjustments	-447	4	-534
Funded status - retirement obligations (Note 16):	'	'	'
Retirement program remeasurements	408	-228	-347
Reclassifications to net income	95	71	42
Income taxes	-180	49	115
Funded status - retirement obligations	323	-108	-190
Derivative instruments (Note 12):	'	'	'
Current year unrealized gain (loss)	1	-1	-15
Reclassifications to net income	'	'	'
Income taxes	'	1	6
Derivative instruments	1	'	-9
TOTAL OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS	-123	-104	-733
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (INCLUDING NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS)	1,713	1,640	989
Less: noncontrolling interests	-76	-54	-45
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - PRAXAIR, INC.	$1,637	$1,586	$944

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Assets	'		'
Cash and cash equivalents	$138		$157
Accounts receivable – net	1,892		1,834
Inventories	506	[1]	476	[1]
Prepaid and other current assets	380		325
Total Current Assets	2,916		2,792
Property, plant and equipment – net	12,278	[2]	11,453	[2]
Equity investments	702		654
Goodwill	3,194		2,507
Other intangible assets – net	596		173
Other long-term assets	569		511
Total Assets	20,255	[3]	18,090	[3]
Liabilities and Equity	'		'
Accounts payable	921		928
Short-term debt	782		638
Current portion of long-term debt	3		39
Accrued taxes	168		123
Other current liabilities	790		751
Total Current Liabilities	2,664		2,479
Long-term debt	8,026		6,685
Other long-term liabilities	859		1,276
Deferred credits	1,396		977
Total Liabilities	12,945		11,417
Commitments and contingencies (Note 17)	'		'
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	307		252
Praxair, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity:	'		'
Common stock $0.01 par value, authorized – 800,000,000 shares, issued 2013 – 383,230,625 shares and 2012 – 383,073,446 shares	4		4
Additional paid-in capital	3,970		3,889
Retained earnings	10,528		9,534
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-1,981		-1,852
Less: Treasury stock, at cost (2013 – 89,096,761 shares and 2012 – 86,843,966 shares)	-5,912		-5,511
Total Praxair, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity	6,609		6,064
Noncontrolling interests	394		357
Total Equity	7,003		6,421
Total Liabilities and Equity	$20,255		$18,090
[1]	Approximately 6% and 7% of total inventories were valued using the LIFO method at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. If inventories had been valued at current costs, they would have been approximately $9 million and $14 million higher than reported at December 31, 2013 and 2012.
[2]	Long-lived assets include property, plant and equipment – net.
[3]	Includes equity investments as of December 31, as follows:

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]	'	'
Common stock, par value (usd per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, authorized (in shares)	800,000,000	800,000,000
Common stock, issued (in shares)	383,230,625	383,073,446
Treasury stock, shares (in shares)	89,096,761	86,843,966

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Operations	'		'		'
Net income – Praxair, Inc.	$1,755	[1]	$1,692	[1]	$1,672
Noncontrolling Interests	81		52		50
Net Income (Including Noncontrolling Interests)	1,836		1,744		1,722
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:	'		'		'
Venezuela currency devaluation and other charges-net, net of payments	23		43		-5
Depreciation and amortization	1,109		1,001		1,003
Deferred income taxes	101		258		-3
Share-based compensation	70		70		62
Non-cash charges and other	-88		-127		-71
Working capital	'		'		'
Accounts receivable	-84		-36		-108
Inventory	-54		-18		-31
Prepaid and other current assets	-69		-17		8
Payables and accruals	107		-34		44
Pension contributions	-52		-184		-94
Long-term assets, liabilities and other	18		52		-72
Net cash provided by operating activities	2,917		2,752		2,455
Investing	'		'		'
Capital expenditures	-2,020		-2,180		-1,797
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-1,323		-280		-294
Divestitures and asset sales	106		82		86
Net cash used for investing activities	-3,237		-2,378		-2,005
Financing	'		'		'
Short-term debt borrowings (repayments) – net	149		293		-47
Long-term debt borrowings	2,659		2,036		1,541
Long-term debt repayments	-1,347		-1,522		-580
Issuances of common stock	154		164		195
Purchases of common stock	-590		-623		-937
Cash dividends – Praxair, Inc. shareholders	-708		-655		-602
Excess tax benefit on stock based compensation	46		60		53
Noncontrolling interest transactions and other	-35		-56		-3
Net cash used for financing activities	328		-303		-380
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-27		-4		-19
Change in cash and cash equivalents	-19		67		51
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning-of-period	157		90		39
Cash and cash equivalents, end-of-period	138		157		90
Supplemental Data	'		'		'
Income taxes paid	532		277		515
Interest paid, net of capitalized interest (Note 7)	$184		$153		$157
[1]	2013 and 2012 include the impact of the following benefits/(charges) (see Notes 2, 5 & 11):

Consolidated_Statements_of_Equ

Consolidated Statements of Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Note 7)	Treasury Stock	Praxair, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity	Noncontrolling Interests	Total Equity
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2010	$6,145	$4	$3,702	$7,475	($1,018)	($4,371)	$5,792	$353	'
Treasury stock, shares (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2010	'	'	'	'	'	78,627,000	'	'	'
Beginning Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2010	'	382,623,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net Income	1,722	'	'	1,672	'	'	1,672	48	1,720
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-733	'	'	'	-728	'	-728	-5	'
Dividends and other capital reductions	-26	'	'	'	'	'	'	-26	'
Additions (Reductions)	4	'	'	'	'	'	'	4	'
Reclassification to redeemable noncontrolling interests (Note 14)	-65	'	'	'	'	'	'	-65	'
Redemption value adjustments (Note 14)	-35	'	'	-35	'	'	-35	'	'
Dividends to Praxair, Inc common stock	-602	'	'	-602	'	'	-602	'	'
Issuances of common stock:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Stock issued during period dividend reinvestment and employee stock purchase plan (in shares)	'	71,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Stock issued during period dividend reinvestment and employee stock purchase plan	7	'	7	'	'	'	7	'	'
Stock issued during period employee savings and incentive plans (in shares)	'	160,000	'	'	'	-3,682,000	'	'	'
Stock issued during period employee savings and incentive plans	198	'	-17	'	'	215	198	'	'
Purchases of common stock (in shares)	'	'	'	'	'	9,379,000	'	'	'
Purchases of common stock	-933	'	'	'	'	-933	-933	'	'
Tax benefit from stock options	55	'	55	'	'	'	55	'	'
Share-based compensation	62	'	62	'	'	'	62	'	'
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	5,797	4	3,809	8,510	-1,746	-5,089	5,488	309	'
Treasury stock, shares (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2011	'	'	'	'	'	84,324,000	'	'	'
Ending Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2011	'	382,854,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net Income	1,744	'	'	1,692	'	'	1,692	34	1,726
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-104	'	'	'	-106	'	-106	2	'
Dividends and other capital reductions	-48	'	'	'	'	'	'	-48	'
Purchases of noncontrolling interests	44	'	'	'	'	'	'	44	'
Additions (Reductions)	16	'	'	'	'	'	'	16	'
Redemption value adjustments (Note 14)	-13	'	'	-13	'	'	-13	'	'
Dividends to Praxair, Inc common stock	-655	'	'	-655	'	'	-655	'	'
Issuances of common stock:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Stock issued during period dividend reinvestment and employee stock purchase plan (in shares)	'	66,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Stock issued during period dividend reinvestment and employee stock purchase plan	7	'	7	'	'	'	7	'	'
Stock issued during period employee savings and incentive plans (in shares)	'	153,000	'	'	'	-3,298,000	'	'	'
Stock issued during period employee savings and incentive plans	148	'	-60	'	'	208	148	'	'
Purchases of common stock (in shares)	'	'	'	'	'	5,818,000	'	'	'
Purchases of common stock	-630	'	'	'	'	-630	-630	'	'
Tax benefit from stock options	63	'	63	'	'	'	63	'	'
Share-based compensation	70	'	70	'	'	'	70	'	'
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	6,421	4	3,889	9,534	-1,852	-5,511	6,064	357	'
Treasury stock, shares (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012	86,843,966	'	'	'	'	86,844,000	'	'	'
Ending Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012	'	383,073,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net Income	1,836	'	'	1,755	'	'	1,755	57	1,812
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-123	'	'	'	-129	'	-129	6	'
Dividends and other capital reductions	-41	'	'	'	'	'	'	-41	'
Additions (Reductions)	15	'	'	'	'	'	'	15	'
Redemption value adjustments (Note 14)	-53	'	'	-53	'	'	-53	'	'
Dividends to Praxair, Inc common stock	-708	'	'	-708	'	'	-708	'	'
Issuances of common stock:	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Stock issued during period dividend reinvestment and employee stock purchase plan (in shares)	'	47,000	'	'	'	-14,000	'	'	'
Stock issued during period dividend reinvestment and employee stock purchase plan	7	'	5	'	'	2	7	'	'
Stock issued during period employee savings and incentive plans (in shares)	'	111,000	'	'	'	-2,767,000	'	'	'
Stock issued during period employee savings and incentive plans	139	'	-41	'	'	180	139	'	'
Purchases of common stock (in shares)	'	'	'	'	'	5,034,000	'	'	'
Purchases of common stock	-583	'	'	'	'	-583	-583	'	'
Tax benefit from stock options	47	'	47	'	'	'	47	'	'
Share-based compensation	70	'	70	'	'	'	70	'	'
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$7,003	$4	$3,970	$10,528	($1,981)	($5,912)	$6,609	$394	'
Treasury stock, shares (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013	89,096,761	'	'	'	'	89,097,000	'	'	'
Ending Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013	'	383,231,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'

Consolidated_Statements_of_Equ1

Consolidated Statements of Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Dividends to Praxair, Inc common stock, per share	$2.40	$2.20	$2

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	Operations – Praxair, Inc. and its subsidiaries ("Praxair" or "the company") comprise one of the largest industrial gases companies worldwide, and the largest in North and South America. Praxair produces, sells and distributes atmospheric, process and specialty gases, and high-performance surface coatings to a diverse group of industries including aerospace, chemicals, electronics, energy, food and beverage, healthcare, manufacturing and metals.
	Principles of Consolidation – The consolidated financial statements were prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (" U.S. GAAP") and include the accounts of all significant subsidiaries where control exists and, in limited situations, variable-interest entities where the company is the primary beneficiary. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation and any significant related-party transactions have been disclosed.
	Equity investments generally consist of 20% to 50% owned operations where the company exercises significant influence, but does not have control. Equity income from equity investments in corporations is reported on an after-tax basis. Pre-tax income from equity investments that are partnerships or limited-liability corporations ("LLC") is included in other income (expenses) – net with related taxes included in Income taxes. Equity investments are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances reflect that an impairment loss may have incurred. Operations less than 20% owned, where the company does not exercise significant influence, are generally carried at cost.
	Changes in ownership interest that result either in consolidation or deconsolidation of an investment are recorded at fair value through earnings, including the retained ownership interest, while changes that do not result in either consolidation or deconsolidation of a subsidiary are treated as equity transactions.
	Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the 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. While actual results could differ, management believes such estimates to be reasonable.
	Revenue Recognition – Product sales represent approximately 89% of consolidated sales while all other sources of revenue are approximately 11% in the aggregate. Revenue is recognized when a firm sales agreement exists, collectability of a fixed or determinable sales price is reasonably assured, and when title and risks of ownership transfer to the customer for product sales or, in the case of other revenues when obligations are satisfied or services are performed. Sales returns and allowances are not a normal practice in the industry and are not significant.
	A small portion of the company’s revenues relate to long-term construction contracts and are generally recognized using the percentage-of-completion method. Under this method, revenues from sales of major equipment, such as large air-separation facilities, are recognized based primarily on cost incurred to date compared with total estimated cost. Changes to total estimated cost and anticipated losses, if any, are recognized in the period determined.
	For contracts that contain multiple products and/or services, amounts assigned to each component are based on its objectively determined fair value, such as the sales price for the component when it is sold separately or competitor prices for similar components.
	Certain of the company’s facilities that are built to provide product to a specific customer are required to be accounted for as leases. The associated revenue streams are classified as rental revenue and are not significant.
	Amounts billed for shipping and handling fees are recorded as sales, generally on FOB destination terms, and costs incurred for shipping and handling are recorded as cost of sales.
	Amounts billed for sales and use taxes, value-added taxes, and certain excise and other specific transactional taxes imposed on revenue producing transactions are presented on a net basis and are not included in sales in the consolidated statement of income.
	Cash Equivalents – Cash equivalents are considered to be highly liquid securities with original maturities of three months or less.
	Inventories – Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the average-cost method for most operations and the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method for certain U.S. operations (see Note 7).
	Property, Plant and Equipment – Net – Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. The company capitalizes interest as part of the cost of constructing major facilities (see Note 7). Depreciation is calculated on the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from 3 years to 40 years (see Note 8). Praxair uses accelerated depreciation methods for tax purposes where appropriate. Maintenance of property, plant and equipment is generally expensed as incurred.
	The company performs a test for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an individual asset or asset group may not be recoverable. Should projected undiscounted future cash flows be less than the carrying amount of the asset or asset group, an impairment charge reducing the carrying amount to fair value is required. Fair value is determined based on the most appropriate valuation technique, including discounted cash flows.
	Asset-Retirement Obligations – An asset-retirement obligation is recognized in the period in which sufficient information exists to determine the fair value of the liability with a corresponding increase to the carrying amount of the related property, plant and equipment which is then depreciated over its useful life. The liability is initially measured at discounted fair value and then accretion expense is recorded in each subsequent period. The company’s asset-retirement obligations are primarily associated with its on-site long-term supply arrangements where the company has built a facility on land leased from the customer and is obligated to remove the facility at the end of the contract term. The company’s asset-retirement obligations are not material to its consolidated financial statements.
	Foreign Currency Translation – For most foreign operations, the local currency is the functional currency and translation gains and losses are reported as part of the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component of equity as a cumulative translation adjustment (see Note 7). For other foreign operations, the U.S. dollar is the functional currency and translation gains and losses are included in other income (expenses) – net.
	Financial Instruments – Praxair enters into various derivative financial instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuating interest and currency exchange rates and energy costs. Such instruments primarily include interest-rate swap and treasury lock agreements; currency-swap agreements; forward contracts; currency options; and commodity-swap agreements. These instruments are not entered into for trading purposes. Praxair only uses commonly traded and non-leveraged instruments.
	There are two types of derivatives the company enters into: hedges of fair-value exposures and hedges of cash-flow exposures. Fair-value exposures relate to recognized assets or liabilities, and firm commitments; while cash-flow exposures relate to the variability of future cash flows associated with recognized assets or liabilities, or forecasted transactions. When a derivative is executed and hedge accounting is appropriate, it is designated as either a fair-value hedge or a cash-flow hedge. Currently, Praxair designates all interest-rate and commodity-swap agreements as hedges; however, currency contracts are generally not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. All derivatives are linked to an appropriate underlying exposure. On an ongoing basis, the company assesses the hedge effectiveness of all derivatives designated as hedges to determine if they continue to be highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the underlying hedged items. If it is determined that the hedge is not highly effective, then hedge accounting will be discontinued prospectively and changes in fair value are recorded in the consolidated statements of income.
	Changes in the fair value of derivatives designated as fair-value hedges are recognized in earnings as an offset to the change in the fair values of the underlying exposures being hedged. The changes in fair value of derivatives that are designated as cash-flow hedges are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are reclassified to earnings as the underlying hedged transaction affects earnings. Any ineffectiveness is recognized in earnings immediately. Hedges of net investments in foreign subsidiaries are recognized in the cumulative translation adjustment component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the consolidated balance sheets to offset translation gains and losses associated with the hedged net investment. Derivatives that are entered into for risk-management purposes and are not designated as hedges (primarily related to anticipated net income and currency derivatives other than for firm commitments) are recorded at their fair market values and recognized in current earnings.
	See Note 12 for additional information relating to financial instruments.
	Goodwill – Acquisitions are accounted for using the acquisition method which requires allocation of the purchase price to assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on estimated fair values. Any excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired is recorded as goodwill. Allocations of the purchase price are based on preliminary estimates and assumptions at the date of acquisition and are subject to revision based on final information received, including appraisals and other analyses which support underlying estimates.
	The company performs a goodwill impairment test annually in the second quarter or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that an impairment loss may have been incurred. The impairment test allows an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than carrying value. If it is determined, that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than carrying value then the company will estimate and compare the fair value of its reporting units to their carrying value, including goodwill. Reporting units are determined based on one level below the operating segment level. As applicable, fair value is determined through the use of projected future cash flows, multiples of earnings and sales and other factors. Such analysis requires the use of certain market assumptions and discount factors, which are subjective in nature.
	See Note 9 for additional information relating to goodwill.
	Other Intangible Assets – Customer and license/use agreements, non-compete agreements and patents and other intangibles are amortized over the estimated period of benefit. The determination of the estimated period of benefit will be dependent upon the use and underlying characteristics of the intangible asset. Praxair evaluates the recoverability of its intangible assets subject to amortization when facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the asset may not be recoverable. If the carrying value is not recoverable, impairment is measured as the amount by which the carrying value exceeds its estimated fair value. Fair value is generally estimated based on either appraised value or other valuation techniques.
	See Note 10 for additional information relating to other intangible assets.
	Income Taxes – Deferred income taxes are recorded for the temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using currently enacted tax rates. Valuation allowances are established against deferred tax assets whenever circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized in future periods.
	Under the guidance for accounting for uncertainty in income taxes, the company can recognize the benefit of an income tax position only if it is more likely than not (greater than 50%) that the tax position will be sustained upon tax examination, based solely on the technical merits of the tax position. Otherwise, no benefit can be recognized. The tax benefits recognized are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Additionally, the company accrues interest and related penalties, if applicable, on all tax exposures for which reserves have been established consistent with jurisdictional tax laws. Interest and penalties are classified as income tax expense in the financial statements.
	See Note 5 for additional information relating to income taxes.
	Retirement Benefits – Most Praxair employees participate in a form of defined benefit or contribution retirement plan, and additionally certain employees are eligible to participate in various post-employment health care and life insurance benefit plans. The cost of contribution plans is recognized in the year earned while the cost of other plans is recognized over the employees’ expected service period to the company, all in accordance with the applicable accounting standards. The funded status of the plans is recorded as an asset or liability in the consolidated balance sheets. Funding of retirement benefits varies and is in accordance with local laws and practices.
	See Note 16 for additional information relating to retirement programs.
	Share-based Compensation– The company has granted share-based awards which consist of stock options, restricted stock and performance-based stock. Share-based compensation expense is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the stated vesting period. For stock awards granted to full-retirement-eligible employees, compensation expense is recognized over the period from the grant date to the date retirement eligibility is achieved. For performance-based awards, compensation expense is recognized only if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved.
	See Note 15 for additional disclosures relating to share-based compensation.
	Recently Issued Accounting Standards
	Accounting Standards Implemented in 2013
	The following standards were all effective for Praxair in 2013 and their adoption did not have a significant impact on the condensed consolidated financial statements:
	•	Statement of Comprehensive Income - In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued updated disclosure requirements regarding the presentation of other comprehensive income. The adoption of this guidance did not have a significant impact on the consolidated financial statements. Refer to the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) following the Consolidated Statements of Income.
	•	Offsetting Assets and Liabilities - In December 2011, the FASB issued updated disclosure requirements related to a company's right or requirement to offset balance sheet items and the related arrangements associated with its financial instruments and derivative instruments. The new guidance requires the disclosure of the gross amounts subject to rights of setoff, amounts offset, and the related net exposure. The adoption of this guidance did not have a significant impact on the consolidated financial statements.
	Accounting Standards to Be Implemented
	•	Accounting for Cumulative Translation Adjustment - In March 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance on the release of the cumulative translation adjustment into net income when a parent either sells a part or all of its investment in a foreign entity, or as a result of acquisitions achieved in stages. This guidance will be effective for Praxair beginning with the first quarter 2014. Praxair does not expect this requirement to have any impact on the consolidated financial statements.
	•	Presentation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits - In July 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance on the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits. The new guidance requires an entity to present certain unrecognized tax benefits, or a portion therefore, as a reduction to the related deferred tax asset, primarily for loss and tax credit carryforwards. This guidance will be effective for Praxair beginning with the first quarter 2014. Praxair does not expect this requirement to have a significant impact on the consolidated financial statements.
	Reclassifications – Certain prior years’ amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation.

Venezuela_Currency_Devaluation

Venezuela Currency Devaluation and Other Charges - Net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Extraordinary and Unusual Items [Abstract]	'
Cost Reduction Program and Other Charges - Net	'
	NOTE 2. VENEZUELA CURRENCY DEVALUATION AND OTHER CHARGES – NET
	2013 Charges
	Venezuela Currency Devaluation
	On February 8, 2013, Venezuela announced a devaluation of the Venezuelan Bolivar from 4.30 to 6.30 (a 32% devaluation), effective on February 13, 2013. In the first quarter Praxair recorded a $23 million pre-tax charge ($23 million after-tax) due primarily to the remeasurement of the local Venezuelan balance sheet to reflect the new official 6.30 exchange rate. The company does not expect the impact of the devaluation on future results of operations to be significant.
	Pension Settlement Charge
	During 2012, a number of senior managers retired. These retirees are covered by the U.S. supplemental pension plan which provides for a lump sum benefit payment option. Under certain circumstances, such lump sum payments must be accounted for as a settlement of the related pension obligation, but only when paid. Accordingly, Praxair recorded a settlement charge related to net unrecognized actuarial losses of $9 million ($6 million after-tax) in July 2013 when the cash payments were made to the retirees (refer to Note 16).
	2012 Charges
	Cost Reduction Program
	In the third quarter of 2012, Praxair recorded pre-tax charges totaling $56 million ($38 million after taxes of $16 million and noncontrolling interests of $2 million), relating to severance and business restructuring actions primarily in Europe within the industrial gases and surface technologies businesses. The cost reduction program was initiated primarily in response to the continuing economic downturn in Europe.
	The following is a summary of the charges by reportable segment:
	(Millions of dollars)		Severance				Costs Associated				Total Cost
			Costs				with Exit or				Reduction
							Disposal				Program
							Activities
	North America		$	1			$	—			$	1
	Europe		28				8				36
	South America		1				—				1
	Asia		2				—				2
	Surface Technologies		11				5				16
	Total		$	43			$	13			$	56
	The severance costs of $43 million are for the termination of approximately 410 employees, primarily in Europe (industrial gases and surface technologies). These actions reflected the continued business slow-down in Europe and resulted from a decision to eliminate and/or restructure operations and product lines. The actions are substantially completed as of December 31, 2013 and the remaining liability associated with those actions is expected to be paid during the next twelve months.
	The costs associated with exit or disposal activities of $13 million include asset write-downs and other costs associated with a decision to eliminate and/or restructure operations and product lines. In Europe the costs primarily relate to the elimination and consolidation of operations in Spain. In Surface Technologies, the costs relate to the consolidation/rationalization of operations and product lines, primarily in Germany and Italy.
	The following table summarizes the activities related to the company's cost reduction program through December 31, 2013:
	(Millions of dollars)		Severance				Costs Associated				Total Cost
			Costs				with Exit or				Reduction
							Disposal				Program
							Activities
	Cost reduction program charges in the third quarter of 2012		$	43			$	13			$	56
	Less: Cash payments		$	(13	)		$	—			$	(13	)
	Less: Non-cash asset write-offs		$	—			$	(9	)		$	(9	)
	Balance, December 31, 2012		$	30			$	4			$	34
	Less: Cash payments		(16		)		(4		)		(20		)
	Foreign currency translation		1				—				1
	Balance, December 31, 2013		$	15			$	—			$	15
	Pension Settlement Charge
	During 2011, a number of senior managers retired. These retirees are covered by the U.S. supplemental pension plan which provides for a lump sum benefit payment option. Under certain circumstances, such lump sum payments must be accounted for as a settlement of the related pension obligation, but only when paid. Accordingly, Praxair recorded a settlement charge related to net unrecognized actuarial losses of $9 million ($6 million after-tax) in July 2012 when the cash payments were made (refer to Note 16).
	2011 Charges – net
	Gain on Acquisition
	As discussed in Note 3, during the fourth quarter 2011 Praxair increased its ownership in its Yara Praxair Holding AS (“Yara Praxair”) joint venture in Scandinavia from 50% to 66% and consolidated the company. Previously, Praxair accounted for its 50% ownership interest in the joint venture as an equity method investment. In accordance with U. S. accounting rules, upon consolidation Praxair was required to fair value the entire Yara Praxair joint venture, including its original 50% ownership interest. Accordingly, Praxair recorded a net pre-tax gain of $39 million ($37 million net income – Praxair, Inc.) during the fourth quarter of 2011 primarily for the amount that the fair value of its original 50% ownership interest exceeded the equity investment book value.
	Cost Reduction Program
	In the fourth quarter 2011, Praxair recorded pre-tax charges totaling $40 million ($31 million after-tax), relating to severance and business restructuring actions primarily in Europe within the industrial gases and surface technologies businesses. The cost reduction program was initiated primarily in response to the economic downturn in Europe.
	The following is a summary of the charges by reportable segment.
	(Millions of dollars)	Severance				Costs Associated				Total Cost
		Costs				with Exit or				Reduction Program
						Disposal Activities
	North America	$	1			$	—			$	1
	Europe	20				1				21
	South America	4				—				4
	Surface Technologies	8				6				14
	Total	$	33			$	7			$	40
	The severance costs of $33 million are for the termination of approximately 290 employees, primarily in Europe, South America and Surface technologies, of which approximately half were terminated as of December 31, 2011. At December 31, 2012, all actions have been completed. These costs include $6 million of pension settlement charges, primarily related to the closure of the surface technologies business in Switzerland.
	The costs associated with exit or disposal activities of $7 million include asset write-downs and other costs primarily associated with a decision to close the company’s surface technologies facility in Switzerland, and to consolidate operations in the United Kingdom.
	Classification in the consolidated financial statements
	The pre-tax net charges or benefits for each year are shown in operating profit in a separate line item on the consolidated statement of income. In the balance sheets, asset write-offs are recorded as a reduction to the carrying value of the related assets and unpaid amounts are recorded as short-term liabilities (See Note 7). On the consolidated statement of cash flows, the pre-tax impact of the net charges or benefits, net of cash payments, is shown as an adjustment to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities. In Note 18 - Segment Information, Praxair excluded these items in its management definition of segment operating profit; a reconciliation of segment operating profit to consolidated operating profit is shown within the operating profit table.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Acquistions [Abstract]	'
Acquisitions	'
	NOTE 3. ACQUISITIONS
	The results of operations of these businesses have been included in Praxair’s consolidated statements of income since their respective dates of acquisition. Proforma financial statements for the following acquisitions have not been provided as the acquisitions are not material individually or in the aggregate.
	2013 Acquisitions
	NuCO2
	On March 1, 2013 Praxair acquired 100% of NuCO2 Inc. ("NuCO2") for $1,095 million. NuCO2 is the leading national provider of beverage carbonation solutions in the United States to the restaurant and hospitality industries with 162,000 customer locations and 900 employees, and with 2012 sales of approximately $230 million. The NuCO2 micro-bulk beverage carbonation solution is the service model of choice for quick service restaurants and convenience stores offering fountain beverages and represents an extension of Praxair's core industrial gas business.
	The acquisition of NuCO2 was accounted for as a business combination. Following the acquisition date, 100% of NuCO2's results were consolidated in the North America business segment. Praxair's 2013 consolidated income statement includes sales of $208 million related to NuCO2. Pro forma results for 2013 and 2012 have not been included as the impact of the acquisition is not material to the consolidated statements of income.
	The following table summarizes the fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition of NuCO2 as of the acquisition date. The allocation of the purchase price to identifiable assets and liabilities is final except for those related to income taxes. The potential adjustments are expected to be insignificant and will be recorded when the pre-acquisition tax returns are finalized in the 2014 first quarter.
	(Millions of dollars)	1-Mar-13
	Trade receivables, net	$	17
	Property, plant and equipment	199
	Intangible assets	374
	Deferred income taxes	(85		)
	Other assets and (liabilities)	(28		)
	Goodwill	618
	Purchase price	$	1,095
	The identifiable intangible assets primarily consist of customer relationships that will be amortized over their estimated useful life of 25 years. The deferred income taxes relate primarily to property, plant and equipment, intangibles and operating loss carryforwards. The goodwill resulting from the acquisition is attributable to (i) expected growth from market penetration into the quick service restaurants, convenience stores and themed restaurant chains in the United States and select international markets as we leverage Praxair's customer and distribution networks worldwide, and (ii) cost synergies related to the procurement of raw materials, distribution-related expenses and administrative costs as Praxair integrates and rationalizes administration tasks and leverages its purchasing scale. The goodwill is not expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.
	Other Acquisitions
	On May 29, 2013 Praxair acquired Dominion Technology Gases Investment Limited (“Dominion”), a leading global supplier of diving, welding, industrial, laboratory and calibration gases and associated equipment to the offshore oil and gas industry based in Aberdeen, Scotland. Dominion provides products and services to the expanding global offshore oil and gas market.
	On June 3, 2013 Praxair acquired Volgograd Oxygen Factory (“VOF”), the largest independent industrial gas business in southern Russia, expanding Praxair's production and distribution capabilities in the Volgograd region. Additionally, during 2013, Praxair acquired several smaller independent packaged gas distributors in the United States, an industrial gas business in Italy and a customer contract with operating assets in China.
	The aggregate purchase price for these acquisitions was $228 million and resulted in the recognition of $194 million of intangible assets, including $101 million of goodwill and $93 million of other intangible assets, which will be amortized over their estimated useful life.
	2012 Acquisitions
	In November 2012, Praxair acquired Acetylene Oxygen Company ("AOC"), one of the top ten independent gas and welding products distributors in the U.S, which operates throughout central and southern Texas. The acquisition of AOC allows Praxair to further expand its packaged gases presence in this region. Also, during the twelve months ended December 31, 2012, Praxair completed a number of other smaller acquisitions, primarily North American packaged gas distributors, including PortaGas, located in Houston, Texas. The aggregate purchase price for all seventeen acquisitions was $280 million, and resulted in recognition of $122 million of goodwill.
	2011 Acquisitions
	In December 2011, Praxair acquired Texas Welders Supply Company, the largest independent gas and welding products distributor in the greater Houston, Texas area. This acquisition increased Praxair’s packaged gas presence in what is considered one of top five welding markets in the U.S.
	In October 2011, Praxair increased its ownership in its Yara Praxair industrial gases joint venture with Yara International ASA of Norway from 50% to 66%. The Yara Praxair joint venture, formed in late 2007, comprises Yara International’s former industrial gases businesses located in Norway, Denmark and Sweden. Through the third quarter of 2011, Praxair accounted for its 50% ownership interest in the joint venture as an equity method investment. As a result of the acquisition of a controlling interest, Praxair consolidated Yara Praxair within the European segment beginning in the fourth quarter of 2011 (including $50 million of sales). In accordance with U.S. accounting rules, Praxair was also required to fair value its original 50% ownership interest in Yara Praxair which resulted in a $39 million net gain (see Note 2).
	On June 15, 2011, Praxair completed the acquisition of a 49% ownership interest in the ROC Group’s industrial gases business operating in the United Arab Emirates. This investment has been accounted for as an equity investment in Praxair’s consolidated financial statements.
	Also, during the twelve months ended December 31, 2011, Praxair completed several smaller acquisitions, related primarily to North American packaged gas distributors, including American Gas Group, primarily located in Toledo, Ohio and National Alloy and Equipment, in Houston, Texas.
	The aggregate net cash paid for these acquisitions was $294 million and resulted in the recognition of $396 million of goodwill. The goodwill includes the consolidation of Yara Praxair, while the cash paid only relates to Praxair’s ownership increase.

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Leases [Abstract]	'
Leases	'
	NOTE 4. LEASES
	In the normal course of its business, Praxair enters into various leases as the lessee, primarily involving manufacturing and distribution equipment and office space. Total lease and rental expenses under operating leases were $140 million in 2013, $120 million in 2012 and $115 million in 2011. Capital leases are not significant and are included in property, plant and equipment – net. Related obligations are included in debt.
	At December 31, 2013, minimum payments due under operating leases are as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2014	$	119
	2015	103
	2016	88
	2017	69
	2018	57
	Thereafter	51
		$	487
	The present value of these future lease payments under operating leases is approximately $411 million.
	Praxair’s leases where it is the lessor are not significant.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	NOTE 5. INCOME TAXES
	Pre-tax income applicable to U.S. and foreign operations is as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012				2011
	Year Ended December 31,
	United States	$	890			$	880			$	762
	Foreign	1,557				1,416				1,561
	Total income before income taxes	$	2,447			$	2,296			$	2,323
	The following is an analysis of the provision for income taxes:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012				2011
	Year Ended December 31,
	Current tax expense
	U.S. federal	$	94			$	14			$	273
	State and local	27				20				30
	Foreign	427				294				341
		548				328				644
	Deferred tax expense
	U.S. federal	164				198				(47		)
	State and local	8				17				3
	Foreign	(71		)		43				41
		101				258				(3		)
	Total income taxes	$	649			$	586			$	641
	An analysis of the difference between the provision for income taxes and the amount computed by applying the U.S. statutory income tax rate to pre-tax income follows:
	(Dollar amounts in millions)	2013							2012						2011
	Year Ended December 31,
	U.S. statutory income tax rate	$	856			35	%		$	804			35	%	$	813		35	%
	State and local taxes – net of federal benefit	23				1	%		24				1	%	21			0.9	%
	U.S. tax credits and deductions (a)	(23		)		(1.0	)%		(22		)		(1.0	)%	(21		)	(0.9	)%
	Foreign tax differentials (b)	(150		)		(6.1	)%		(159		)		(6.9	)%	(164		)	(7.0	)%
	Income tax benefit from realignment of Italian legal structure (c)	(40		)		(1.6	)%		—				—	%	—			—	%
	Income tax benefit from liquidation of subsidiary (d)	—				—	%		(55		)		(2.4	)%	—			—	%
	Other – net	(17		)		(0.8	)%		(6		)		(0.2	)%	(8		)	(0.4	)%
	Provision for income taxes	$	649			26.5	%		$	586			25.5	%	$	641		27.6	%
	________________________
	(a)	U.S. tax credits and deductions relate to manufacturing deductions and to the research and experimentation tax credit.
	(b)	Primarily related to differences between the U.S. tax rate of 35% and the statutory tax rate in the countries where Praxair operates. Other tax rate changes were not significant.
	(c)	In December of 2013, Praxair's Italian legal structure was realigned. As a result of the new structure, an income tax benefit of $40 million ($24 million net of noncontrolling interests) was recorded. The benefit is recorded as $56 million in foreign current tax expense and $(96) million included in federal deferred tax expense.
	(d)	In 2011 Praxair requested a pre-filing agreement (“PFA”) with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) related to a loss on a liquidated subsidiary resulting from the divestiture of the U.S. Homecare Business. During the third quarter of 2012, the IRS approved the PFA resulting in a net income tax benefit of $55 million. The benefit is recorded in U.S. current federal tax expense.
	Net deferred tax liabilities included in the consolidated balance sheet are comprised of the following:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012
	December 31,
	Deferred tax liabilities
	Fixed assets	$	1,374			$	1,153
	Exchange gains	61				92
	Goodwill	127				84
	Other intangible assets	112				—
	Other	133				121
		$	1,807			$	1,450
	Deferred tax assets
	Carryforwards	$	323			$	294
	Benefit plans and related (a)	285				433
	Inventory	20				20
	Accruals and other (b)	312				206
		$	940			$	953
	Less: Valuation allowances (c)	(85		)		(86		)
		$	855			$	867
	Net deferred tax liabilities	$	952			$	583
	Recorded in the consolidated balance sheets as (See Note 7):
	Prepaid and other current assets	$	181			$	185
	Other long-term assets	72				—
	Deferred credits	1,205				768
		$	952			$	583
	________________________
	(a)	Includes deferred taxes of $247 million and $427 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively, related to pension / OPEB funded status (Note 16).
(b)	Includes $112 million and $77 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively, related to research and development costs and $70 million in 2013 related to goodwill.
(c)	Summary of valuation allowances relating to deferred tax assets follows (millions of dollars):
		2013				2012				2011
	Balance, January 1,	$	(86	)		$	(107	)		$	(111	)
	Income tax (charge) benefit:
	U.S.	(1		)		17				6
	Other	2				(8		)		(4		)
	Translation adjustments	—				—				1
	Other, including write-offs	—				12				1
	Balance, December 31,	$	(85	)		$	(86	)		$	(107	)
Praxair evaluates deferred tax assets quarterly to ensure that estimated future taxable income will be sufficient in character (e.g., capital gain versus ordinary income treatment), amount and timing to result in their recovery. After considering the positive and negative evidence, a valuation allowance is established to reduce the assets to their realizable value when management determines that it is more likely than not (i.e., greater than 50% likelihood) that a deferred tax asset will not be realized. Considerable judgment is required in establishing deferred tax valuation allowances. At December 31, 2013, Praxair had $323 million of deferred tax assets relating to net operating losses (“NOLs”) and tax credits and $85 million of valuation allowances. These deferred tax assets include $148 million relating to NOLs of which $72 million are in the United States primarily related to Praxair's NuCo2 acquisition in 2013, and $76 million are in Brazil. The U.S. NOLs expire through 2032 and the Brazil NOLs have no expiration. These NOLs have no valuation allowances. The deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2013 also include $71 million relating to U.S. foreign tax credits which expire in 2021 and have a $54 million valuation allowance. The utilization of the U.S. foreign tax credits is dependent on many factors including U.S. interest expense, future U.S. investment, foreign sales and earnings growth, foreign currency exchange rates, and acquisitions and dispositions. Management’s assessment and judgment are highly dependent on these variables and any significant changes to any one of them can substantially impact the amount of foreign tax credit utilization over the ten-year carryforward period.
The remaining deferred tax assets of $104 million relate to U.S. state ($73 million) and other foreign ($31 million) NOLs and credit carryforwards, which expire through 2033, have valuation allowances totaling $31 million. These valuation allowances relate to certain foreign and U.S. state NOLs and are required because management has determined, based on financial projections and available tax strategies, that it is unlikely that the NOLs will be utilized before they expire. If events or circumstances change, valuation allowances are adjusted at that time resulting in an income tax benefit or charge.
A provision has not been made for additional U.S. federal or foreign taxes at December 31, 2013 on $9.3 billion of undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries because Praxair intends to reinvest these funds indefinitely to support foreign growth opportunities. It is not practicable to estimate the unrecognized deferred tax liability on these undistributed earnings. These earnings could become subject to additional tax if they are remitted as dividends, loaned to Praxair in the U.S., or upon sale of the subsidiary’s stock.
Uncertain Tax Positions
Unrecognized income tax benefits represent income tax positions taken on income tax returns but not yet recognized in the consolidated financial statements. The company has unrecognized income tax benefits totaling $121 million, $142 million and $163 million as of December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. If recognized, essentially all of the unrecognized tax benefits and related interest and penalties would be recorded as a benefit to income tax expense on the consolidated statement of income.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012				2011
Unrecognized income tax benefits, January 1	$	142			$	163			$	153
Additions for tax positions of prior years	8				12				24
Reductions for tax positions of prior years	(24		)		(17		)		(1		)
Additions for current year tax positions	10				—				2
Reductions for settlements with taxing authorities (a)	(2		)		(1		)		(2		)
Reductions as a result of a lapse of an applicable statute of limitations	(1		)		(9		)		(1		)
Foreign currency translation	(12		)		(6		)		(12		)
Unrecognized income tax benefits, December 31	$	121			$	142			$	163
________________________
(a)	Settlements are uncertain tax positions that were effectively settled with the taxing authorities, including positions where the company has agreed to amend its tax returns to eliminate the uncertainty.
Praxair recognized net interest income of $11 million primarily related to refunds received from taxing authorities for the year ended December 31, 2013. Praxair recognized interest expense of $1 million and $4 million related to income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Praxair classifies interest income and expense related to income taxes as tax expense in the consolidated statement of income. Praxair had $12 million and $17 million of accrued interest and penalties as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively which were recorded in other long-term liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets (see Note 7).
As of December 31, 2013, the company remained subject to examination in the following major tax jurisdictions for the tax years as indicated below:
Major tax jurisdictions	Open Years
North America
United States	2011 through 2013
Canada	2006 through 2013
Mexico	2007 through 2013
Europe
Germany	2008 through 2013
Italy	2009 through 2013
Spain	2006 through 2013
South America
Brazil	1998 through 2013
Asia
China	2008 through 2013
India	2006 through 2013
Korea	2007 through 2013
Thailand	2007 through 2013
The company is currently under audit in a number of tax jurisdictions. As a result, it is reasonably possible that some of these audits will conclude or reach the stage where a change in unrecognized income tax benefits may occur within the next twelve months. At that time, the company will record any adjustment to income tax expense as required. During 2013, the company settled its 2009 and 2010 U.S. Income tax audit with the IRS. The company also settled a 1999-2005 income tax dispute with Canada. The settlements were not material to the consolidated financial statements. The company is also subject to income taxes in many hundreds of state and local taxing jurisdictions that are open to tax examinations.

Earnings_Per_Share_Praxair_Inc

Earnings Per Share - Praxair, Inc. Shareholders	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share - Praxair, Inc. Shareholders	'
	NOTE 6. EARNING PER SHARE – PRAXAIR, INC. SHAREHOLDERS
	Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing Net income – Praxair, Inc. for the period by the weighted average number of Praxair common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing Net income – Praxair, Inc. for the period by the weighted average number of Praxair common shares outstanding and dilutive common stock equivalents, as follows:
		2013		2012		2011
	Numerator (Millions of dollars)
	Net income – Praxair, Inc.	$	1,755	$	1,692	$	1,672
	Denominator (Thousands of shares)
	Weighted average shares outstanding	294,994		297,746		301,611
	Shares earned and issuable under compensation plans	529		570		626
	Weighted average shares used in basic earnings per share	295,523		298,316		302,237
	Effect of dilutive securities
	Stock options and awards	3,442		3,529		4,485
	Weighted average shares used in diluted earnings per share	298,965		301,845		306,722
	Basic Earnings Per Common Share	$	5.94	$	5.67	$	5.53
	Diluted Earnings Per Common Share	$	5.87	$	5.61	$	5.45
	There were no antidilutive shares for the years ended December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2011. There were 1,589,235 antidilutive shares for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Supplemental_Information

Supplemental Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Information [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Information	'
	NOTE 7. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
	Income Statement
	(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012			2011
	Year Ended December 31,
	Selling, General and Administrative
	Selling	$	567		$	547		$	563
	General and administrative	782			723			676
		$	1,349		$	1,270		$	1,239
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Depreciation and Amortization
	Depreciation	$	1,068		$	980		$	982
	Amortization of other intangibles (Note 10)	41			21			21
		$	1,109		$	1,001		$	1,003
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Other Income (Expenses) – Net
	Currency related net gains (losses)	$	3		$	(9	)	$	7
	Partnership income	7			10			9
	Net legal settlements	10			24			—
	Severance expense	(14		)	(17		)	(17		)
	Business divestitures and asset gains (losses) – net	43			49			17
	Other – net	(17		)	(14		)	(9		)
		$	32		$	43		$	7
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Interest Expense – Net
	Interest incurred on debt	$	233		$	226		$	222
	Interest capitalized	(69		)	(70		)	(62		)
	Amortization of swap termination costs (Note 12)	(4		)	(15		)	(15		)
	Bond redemption (Note 11)	18			—			—
		$	178		$	141		$	145
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
	Noncontrolling interests' operations	$	41		$	34		$	48
	Income tax benefit in Italy (Note 5)	16			—			—
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests' operations (Note 14)	24			18			2
		$	81		$	52		$	50
	Balance Sheet
	(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012
	December 31,
	Accounts Receivable
	Trade	$	1,815		$	1,763
	Other	175			163
		1,990			1,926
	Less: allowance for doubtful accounts (a)	(98		)	(92		)
		$	1,892		$	1,834
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Inventories (b)
	Raw materials and supplies	$	167		$	164
	Work in process	58			56
	Finished goods	281			256
		$	506		$	476
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Prepaid and Other Current Assets
	Deferred income taxes (Note 5)	$	181		$	185
	Prepaid (c)	145			87
	Other	54			53
		$	380		$	325
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Other Long-term Assets
	Pension assets (Note 16)	$	42		$	—
	Insurance contracts (d)	73			71
	Long-term receivables, net (e)	36			46
	Deposits	62			57
	Investments carried at cost	7			9
Deferred charges	133			159
Deferred income taxes (Note 5)	72			—
Other	144			169
	$	569		$	511
December 31,	2013			2012
Accrued Taxes
Tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions	$	5		$	5
Other accrued taxes	163			118
	$	168		$	123
December 31,	2013			2012
Other Current Liabilities
Accrued expenses	$	291		$	257
Payrolls	184			156
Cost reduction program (Note 2)	15			34
Pension and postretirement (Note 16)	33			46
Interest payable	62			56
Employee benefit accrual	20			20
Severance	13			12
Insurance reserves	11			6
Other	161			164
	$	790		$	751
December 31,	2013			2012
Other Long-term Liabilities
Pension and postretirement (Note 16)	$	498		$	909
Tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions	55			63
Interest and penalties for uncertain tax positions (Note 5)	12			17
Insurance reserves	22			22
Other	272			265
	$	859		$	1,276
December 31,	2013			2012
Deferred Credits
Deferred income taxes (Note 5)	$	1,205		$	768
Other	191			209
	$	1,396		$	977
December 31,	2013			2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Cumulative translation adjustment
North America (f)	$	(315	)	$	(178	)
South America (f)	(1,179		)	(837		)
Europe	(63		)	(93		)
Asia	21			23
Surface Technologies	28			30
	(1,508		)	(1,055		)
Derivatives – net of taxes	(4		)	(5		)
Pension/OPEB funded status obligation (net of $247 million and $427 million taxes in 2013 and 2012, respectively) (Note 16)	(469		)	(792		)
	$	(1,981	)	$	(1,852	)
________________________
(a)	Provisions to the allowance for doubtful accounts were $38 million, $29 million, and $57 million in 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. The remaining allowance activity in each period related primarily to write-offs of uncollectible amounts, net of recoveries and currency movements.
(b)	Approximately 6% and 7% of total inventories were valued using the LIFO method at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. If inventories had been valued at current costs, they would have been approximately $9 million and $14 million higher than reported at December 31, 2013 and 2012.
(c)	2013 includes estimated income tax payments of $75 million.
(d)	Consists primarily of insurance contracts and other investments to be utilized for non-qualified pension and OPEB obligations.
(e)	Financing receivables is not normal practice for the company. The balances at December 31, 2013 and 2012 are net of reserves of $51 million and $43 million, respectively. The balance in both periods relates primarily to government receivables in Brazil and other long-term notes receivable from customers, the majority of which are fully reserved. Collectibility is reviewed regularly and uncollectible amounts are written-off as appropriate. The fluctuation within this account was due primarily to foreign currency movements, additional receivables and reserves.
(f)	North America consists of primarily of currency translation adjustments in Canada and Mexico while South America relates primarily to Brazil and Argentina.

Property_Plant_Equipment_Net

Property, Plant & Equipment - Net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant & Equipment - Net	'
	NOTE 8. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT – NET
	Significant classes of property, plant and equipment are as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)	Depreciable Lives (Yrs)	2013			2012
	December 31,
	Production plants (primarily 15-year life) (a)	20-Oct	$	14,378		$	13,166
	Storage tanks	15-20	2,330			2,035
	Transportation equipment and other	15-Mar	1,866			1,759
	Cylinders (primarily 30-year life)	30-Oct	1,740			1,684
	Buildings	25-40	1,108			1,092
	Land and improvements (b)	0-20	493			490
	Construction in progress		2,116			2,453
			24,031			22,679
	Less: accumulated depreciation		(11,753		)	(11,226		)
			$	12,278		$	11,453
	(a) - Depreciable lives of production plants related to long-term customer supply contracts are consistent with the contract lives.
	(b) - Land is not depreciated.

Goodwill

Goodwill	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill [Abstract]	'
Goodwill	'
	NOTE 9. GOODWILL
	Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)	North			South			Europe		Asia			Surface		Total
		America			America								Technologies
	Balance, December 31, 2011	$	1,375		$	215		$	618	$	24		$	140	$	2,372
	Acquisitions (Note 3)	121			—			1		—			—		122
	Purchase adjustments & other	(9		)	—			—		—			—		(9		)
	Foreign currency translation	12			(20		)	26		1			3		22
	Balance, December 31, 2012	$	1,499		$	195		$	645	$	25		$	143	$	2,507
	Acquisitions (Note 3)	625			—			94		—			—		719
	Purchase adjustments & other	3			—			—		—			—		3
	Foreign currency translation	(10		)	(29		)	4		(1		)	1		(35		)
	Balance, December 31, 2013	$	2,117		$	166		$	743	$	24		$	144	$	3,194
	Praxair has performed its goodwill impairment tests annually during the second quarter of each year, and historically has determined that the fair value of each of its reporting units was substantially in excess of its carrying value. For the 2013 test Praxair applied the FASB's updated accounting guidance which allows the company to first assess qualitative factors to determine the extent of additional quantitative analysis, if any, that may be required to test goodwill for impairment. Based on the qualitative assessments performed, Praxair concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of each reporting unit substantially exceeded its carrying value and therefore, further quantitative analysis was not required. As a result, no impairment was recorded. There were no indicators of impairment through December 31, 2013.

Other_Intangible_Assets

Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Other Intangible Assets [Abstract]	'
Other Intangible Assets	'
	NOTE 10. OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
	The following is a summary of Praxair’s other intangible assets at December 31, 2013 and 2012:
	(Millions of dollars)	Customer &			Non-compete			Patents			Total
	For the year ended December 31, 2013	License/Use			Agreements			&
		Agreements						Other
	Cost:
	Balance, December 31, 2012	$	232		$	37		$	20		$	289
	Additions (primarily acquisitions)	433			4			30			467
	Foreign currency translation	3			—			—			3
	Other *	(7		)	(10		)	(7		)	(24		)
	Balance, December 31, 2013	661			31			43			735
	Less: accumulated amortization:
	Balance, December 31, 2012	(89		)	(20		)	(7		)	(116		)
	Amortization expense	(32		)	(6		)	(3		)	(41		)
	Foreign currency translation	(1		)	—			—			(1		)
	Other *	4			10			5			19
	Balance, December 31, 2013	(118		)	(16		)	(5		)	(139		)
	Net balance at December 31, 2013	$	543		$	15		$	38		$	596
	(Millions of dollars)	Customer &			Non-compete			Patents			Total
	For the year ended December 31, 2012	License/Use			Agreements			&
		Agreements						Other
	Cost:
	Balance, December 31, 2011	$	208		$	37		$	27		$	272
	Additions (primarily acquisitions)	41			5			—			46
	Foreign currency translation	4			—			1			5
	Other *	(21		)	(5		)	(8		)	(34		)
	Balance, December 31, 2012	232			37			20			289
	Less: accumulated amortization:
	Balance, December 31, 2011	(75		)	(20		)	(10		)	(105		)
	Amortization expense	(15		)	(5		)	(1		)	(21		)
	Foreign currency translation	(2		)	—			—			(2		)
	Other *	3			5			4			12
	Balance, December 31, 2012	(89		)	(20		)	(7		)	(116		)
	Net balance at December 31, 2012	$	143		$	17		$	13		$	173
	________________________
	*	Other primarily relates to the write-off of fully amortized assets and purchase accounting adjustments.
	There are no expected residual values related to these intangible assets. Amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $41 million, $21 million and $21 million, respectively. The remaining weighted-average amortization period for intangible assets is approximately 19 years.
	Total estimated annual amortization expense is as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2014	$	44
	2015	43
	2016	40
	2017	34
	2018	30
	Thereafter	405
		$	596

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Debt	'
	NOTE 11. DEBT
	The following is a summary of Praxair’s outstanding debt at December 31, 2013 and 2012:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012
	Short-term
	Commercial paper and U.S. bank borrowings	$	712			$	563
	Other bank borrowings (primarily international)	70				75
	Total short-term debt	782				638
	Long-term
	U.S. borrowings
	3.95% Notes due 2013 (d, e)	—				350
	2.125% Notes due 2013 (a, b, d, e)	—				504
	4.375% Notes due 2014 (a, d)	300				299
	5.25% Notes due 2014 (f)	—				400
	4.625% Notes due 2015	500				500
	3.25% Notes due 2015 (a, b)	418				431
	0.75% Notes due 2016 (c)	400				—
	5.375% Notes due 2016	400				400
	5.20% Notes due 2017	325				325
	1.05% Notes due 2017	400				400
	1.20% Notes due 2018 (c)	500				—
	1.25% Notes due 2018 (b, c)	478				—
	4.50% Notes due 2019 (a)	598				598
	1.90% Notes due 2019 (c)	500				—
	4.05% Notes due 2021 (a)	498				498
	3.00% Notes due 2021 (a)	497				496
	2.45% Notes due 2022 (a)	598				598
	2.20% Notes due 2022 (a)	499				499
	2.70% Notes due 2023 (a, c)	498				—
	3.55% Notes due 2042 (a, c)	466				298
	Other	5				5
	International bank borrowings (d)	140				113
	Obligations under capital lease	9				10
		8,029				6,724
	Less: current portion of long-term debt	(3		)		(39		)
	Total long-term debt	8,026				6,685
	Total debt	$	8,811			$	7,362
	________________________
	(a)	Amounts are net of unamortized discounts.
	(b)	December 31, 2013 and 2012 include a $22 million and $36 million fair value increase, respectively, related to fair value hedge accounting. See Note 12 for additional information.
	(c)	During 2013, Praxair issued the following notes totaling $2.55 billion: $500 million of 1.90% notes due 2019, $400 million of 0.75% notes due 2016, $500 million of 2.70% notes due 2023, $500 million of 1.20% notes due 2018, $175 million of 3.55% notes due 2042 and $475 million of 1.25% notes due 2018. The proceeds of these issuances were used for general corporate purposes.
	(d)	Classified as long-term because of the Company’s intent to refinance this debt on a long-term basis and the availability of such financing under the company's $2 billion senior unsecured credit facility with a syndicate of banks which expires in 2016.
	(e)	In June 2013, Praxair repaid $350 million of 3.95% notes and $500 million of 2.125% notes that became due.
	(f)	In December of 2013, Praxair redeemed $400 million of 5.25% notes due November 2014 for $418 million resulting in an $18 million charge ($12 million after-tax) recorded within interest expense - net for the year ended December 31, 2013.
	Credit Facilities
	At December 31, 2013, the company has the following major credit facility available for future borrowing:
	Millions of dollars	Total				Borrowings			Available for		Expires
		Facility				Outstanding			Borrowing
	Senior Unsecured	$	2,000			$	—		$	2,000	Jul-16
	In July 2011, the company entered into a $1.75 billion senior unsecured credit facility with a syndicate of major financial institutions. In September 2013, Praxair exercised its option to increase the amount of the credit facility to $2 billion. The credit facility is non-cancellable by the issuing financial institutions until its maturity in July 2016. No borrowings were outstanding under the credit agreement at December 31, 2013 or 2012. Associated fees were not significant in each of the past three years.
	Covenants
	Praxair’s $2 billion senior unsecured credit facility and long-term debt agreements contain various covenants which may, among other things, restrict the ability of Praxair to merge with another entity, incur or guarantee debt, sell or transfer certain assets, create liens against assets, enter into sale and leaseback agreements, or pay dividends and make other distributions beyond certain limits. These agreements also require Praxair to not exceed a maximum 70% leverage ratio defined in the agreements as the ratio of consolidated total debt to the sum of consolidated total debt plus consolidated shareholders’ equity of the company. For purposes of the leverage ratio calculation, consolidated shareholders’ equity excludes changes in the cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments after June 30, 2011. At December 31, 2013, the actual leverage ratio, as calculated according to the agreement, was 53% and the company is in compliance with all financial covenants. Also, there are no material adverse change clauses or other subjective conditions that would restrict the company’s ability to borrow under the agreement.
	Other Debt Information
	As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the weighted-average interest rate of short-term borrowings outstanding was 0.4% and 0.7%, respectively.
	Expected maturities on long-term debt are as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2014	$	3
	2015	924
	2016	1,167			*
	2017	727
	2018	1,047
	Thereafter	4,161
		$	8,029
	________________________
*	$361 million of debt due in 2014 has been reflected in 2016 maturities due to the company’s intent to refinance this debt on a long-term basis and the ability to do so under the $2 billion senior unsecured credit facility with a syndicate of banks which expires in 2016.
As of December 31, 2013, $12 million of Praxair’s assets (principally international fixed assets) were pledged as collateral for $8 million of long-term debt, including the current portion of long-term debt.
See Note 13 for the fair value information related to debt.

Financial_Instruments

Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets [Abstract]	'
Financial Instruments	'
	NOTE 12. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
	In its normal operations, Praxair is exposed to market risks relating to fluctuations in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, energy costs and to a lesser extent precious metal prices. The objective of financial risk management at Praxair is to minimize the negative impact of such fluctuations on the company’s earnings and cash flows. To manage these risks, among other strategies, Praxair routinely enters into various derivative financial instruments (“derivatives”) including interest-rate swap and treasury rate lock agreements, currency-swap agreements, forward contracts, currency options, and commodity-swap agreements. These instruments are not entered into for trading purposes and Praxair only uses commonly traded and non-leveraged instruments.
	There are two types of derivatives that the company enters into: (i) those relating to fair-value exposures, and (ii) those relating to cash-flow exposures. Fair-value exposures relate to recognized assets or liabilities, and firm commitments; while cash-flow exposures relate to the variability of future cash flows associated with recognized assets or liabilities, or forecasted transactions.
	When a derivative is executed and hedge accounting is appropriate, it is designated as either a fair-value hedge or a cash-flow hedge. Currently, Praxair designates all interest-rate, treasury rate lock and commodity-swap agreements as hedges for accounting purposes; however, currency contracts are generally not designated as hedges for accounting purposes unless they are related to forecasted transactions. Whether designated as hedges for accounting purposes or not, all derivatives are linked to an appropriate underlying exposure. On an ongoing basis, the company assesses the hedge effectiveness of all derivatives designated as hedges for accounting purposes to determine if they continue to be highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the underlying hedged items. If it is determined that the hedge is not highly effective, then hedge accounting will be discontinued prospectively.
	Counterparties to Praxair’s derivatives are major banking institutions with credit ratings of investment grade or better and no collateral is required, and there are no significant risk concentrations. Management believes the risk of incurring losses on derivative contracts related to credit risk is remote and any losses would be immaterial.
	The following table is a summary of the notional amount and fair value of derivatives outstanding at December 31, 2013 and 2012 for consolidated subsidiaries:
										Fair Value
	(Millions of dollars)	Notional Amounts								Assets								Liabilities
	December 31,	2013				2012				2013				2012				2013				2012
	Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:
	Currency contracts:
	Balance sheet items (a)	$	2,197			$	2,515			$	4			$	6			$	14			$	8
	Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments:
	Currency contracts:
	Forecasted purchases (a)	$	5			$	10			$	—			$	—			$	—			$	—
	Interest rate contracts:
	Interest rate swaps (b)	875				400				22				32				—				—
	Total Hedges	$	880			$	410			$	22			$	32			$	—			$	—
	Total Derivatives	$	3,077			$	2,925			$	26			$	38			$	14			$	8
	________________________
	(a)	Assets are recorded in prepaid and other current assets, and liabilities are recorded in other current liabilities.
	(b)	Assets are recorded in other long term assets.
	Currency Contracts
	Balance Sheet Items
	Foreign currency contracts related to balance sheet items consist of forward contracts entered into to manage the exposure to fluctuations in foreign-currency exchange rates on recorded balance sheet assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the related operating unit. The fair value adjustments on these contracts are offset by the fair value adjustments recorded on the hedged assets and liabilities.
	Anticipated Net Income
	Historically Praxair has entered into anticipated net income hedge contracts consisting of foreign currency options and forwards related primarily to anticipated net income in Brazil, Europe and Canada. Although there were no anticipated net income hedges outstanding as of December 31, 2013 or 2012 , such derivatives were outstanding during 2012. Over the term of the contracts, the fair value adjustments from net-income hedging contracts are largely offset by the impacts on reported net income resulting from currency translation. The accounting rules pertaining to derivatives and hedging do not allow hedges of anticipated net income to be designated as hedging instruments.
	Forecasted Purchases
	Foreign currency contracts related to forecasted purchases consist of forward contracts entered into to manage the exposure to fluctuations in foreign-currency exchange rates on forecasted purchases of capital-related equipment and services denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the related operating units. These forward contracts were designated and accounted for as cash flow hedges.
	Interest Rate Contracts
	Outstanding Interest Rate Swaps
	At December 31, 2013, Praxair had $875 million notional amount of interest-rate swap agreements outstanding related to the $400 million 3.25% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2015 and to the $475 million 1.25% notes that mature 2018 (entered into during 2013), which effectively convert fixed-rate interest to variable-rate interest. These swap agreements were designated as fair value hedges with the resulting fair value adjustments recognized in earnings along with an equally offsetting charge / benefit to earnings for the changes in the fair value of the underlying debt instruments. At December 31, 2013, $22 million was recognized as an increase in the fair value of this note ($32 million at December 31, 2012).
	Terminated Interest Rate Swaps
	The following table summarizes information related to terminated interest rate swap contracts:
								Amount of Gain												Unrecognized Gain (a)
								Recognized in												December 31,
								Earnings (a)
	(Millions of dollars)	Year		Original				2013				2012				2011				2013				2012
		Terminated		Gain
	Interest Rate Swaps
	Underlying debt instrument (b):
	$500 million 2.125% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2013	2011		$	18			$	4			$	9			$	5			$	—			$	4
	$400 million 1.75% fixed-rate notes that matured in 2012	2010		13				—				5				6				—				—
	$500 million 6.375% fixed-rate notes that matured in 2012	2002		47				—				1				4				—				—
	Total			$	78			$	4			$	15			$	15			$	—			$	4
	________________________
	(a)	The unrecognized gain for terminated interest rate swaps is shown as an increase to long-term debt and has been recognized on a straight line basis to interest expense—net over the term of the underlying debt agreements. Upon settlement of the underlying interest rate contract, the cash received was reflected within the Noncontrolling interest transactions and other in the financing section of the consolidated statement of cash flows.
	(b)	The notional amounts of the interest rate contracts were equal to the underlying debt instruments.
	Terminated Treasury Rate Locks
	The following table summarizes the unrecognized gains (losses) related to terminated treasury rate lock contracts:
								Unrecognized Gain / (Loss) (a)
	(Millions of dollars)	Year		Original				31-Dec-13				31-Dec-12
		Terminated		Gain / (Loss)
	Treasury Rate Locks
	Underlying debt instrument:
	$500 million 2.20% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2022 (b)	2012		$	(2	)		$	(2	)		$	(2	)
	$500 million 3.00% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2021 (b)	2011		(11		)		(9		)		(10		)
	$600 million 4.50% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2019 (b)	2009		16				10				11
	$500 million 4.625% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2015 (b)	2008		(7		)		(1		)		(2		)
	Total – pre-tax							$	(2	)		$	(3	)
	Less: income taxes							1				1
	After- tax amounts							$	(1	)		$	(2	)
	________________________
(a)	The unrecognized gains / (losses) for the treasury rate locks are shown in accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") and will be recognized on a straight line basis to interest expense – net over the term of the underlying debt agreements. Upon settlement of the treasury rate lock contracts, the cash received or paid was reflected within Noncontrolling interest transactions and other in the financing section of the consolidated statement of cash flows. Refer to the table below summarizing the impact of the company’s consolidated statements of income and AOCI for current period gain (loss) recognition.
(b)	The notional amount of the treasury rate lock contracts were equal to the underlying debt instrument with the exception of the treasury rate lock contract entered into to hedge the $600 million 4.50% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2019. The notional amount of this contract was $500 million.
The following table summarizes the earnings impacts of derivative that are not designated as hedging instruments:
(Millions of dollars)	Amount of Pre-Tax Gain (Loss)
	Recognized in Earnings (a)
December 31,	2013				2012				2011
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Currency contracts:
Balance sheet items:
Debt-related	$	(46	)		$	33			$	(25	)
Other balance sheet items	(9		)		(1		)		(3		)
Anticipated net income	—				(4		)		(1		)
Total	$	(55	)		$	28			$	(29	)
The following table summarizes the impacts of derivatives that impact AOCI:
(Millions of dollars)	Amount of Gain (Loss)
	Recognized in AOCI (b)
December 31,	2013				2012				2011
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
Currency contracts:
Forecasted purchases (b)	$	1			$	1			$	(4	)
Interest rate contracts:
Treasury rate locks (b)	—				(2		)		(11		)
Total – Pre tax	$	1			$	(1	)		$	(15	)
Less: income taxes	—				1				6
After tax amounts	$	1			$	—			$	(9	)
________________________
(a)	The gains (losses) on balance sheet items are offset by gains (losses) recorded on the underlying hedged assets and liabilities. The gains (losses) for the derivatives and the underlying hedged assets and liabilities related to debt items are recorded in the consolidated statements of income as interest expense-net. Other balance sheet items and anticipated net income gains (losses) are recorded in the consolidated statements of income as other income (expenses)-net.
(b)	The gains (losses) on forecasted purchase and treasury rate locks are recorded as a component of AOCI within derivative instruments in the consolidated statements of equity. There was no ineffectiveness for these instruments during 2013 or 2012. The gains (losses) on forecasted purchases are reclassified to the depreciation and amortization expense on a straight-line basis consistent with the useful life of the underlying asset. The gains (losses) for interest rate contracts are reclassified to earnings as interest expense –net on a straight-line basis over the remaining maturity of the underlying debt. Net losses of less than $1 million are expected to be reclassified to earning during 2014.

Fair_Value_Disclosures

Fair Value Disclosures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Disclosures	'
	NOTE 13. FAIR VALUE DISCLOSURES
	The fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels as follows:
	Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
	Level 2 – quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets or inputs that are observable
	Level 3 – inputs that are unobservable (for example cash flow modeling inputs based on assumptions)
	Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
	The following table summarizes assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2013 and 2012:
		Fair Value Measurements Using
	(Millions of dollars)	Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
		2013		2012		2013		2012		2013		2012
	Assets
	Derivative assets	$	—	$	—	$	26	$	38	$	—	$	—
	Liabilities
	Derivative liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	14	$	8	$	—	$	—
	The fair values of the derivative assets and liabilities are based on market prices obtained from independent brokers or determined using quantitative models that use as their basis readily observable market parameters that are actively quoted and can be validated through external sources, including third-party pricing services, brokers and market transactions. Investments are marketable securities traded on an exchange.
	The fair value of cash and cash equivalents, short-term debt, accounts receivables-net, and accounts payable approximate carrying value because of the short-term maturities of these instruments. The fair value of long-term debt is estimated based on the quoted market prices for the same or similar issues, which is deemed a Level 2 measurement. At December 31, 2013, the estimated fair value of Praxair’s long-term debt portfolio was $7,976 million versus a carrying value of $8,029 million. At December 31, 2012, the estimated fair value of Praxair’s long-term debt portfolio was $7,131 million versus a carrying value of $6,724 million. These differences are attributable to interest-rate changes subsequent to when the debt was issued.
	Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Non-Recurring Basis
	Certain assets are valued at fair value on a non-recurring basis. During the first quarter 2012, the company reduced the value of certain assets in Brazil, Colombia and Chile to estimated fair value which resulted in a $21 million pre-tax charge to other income (expense) – net in the South America segment.
	The above fair value measurements were based on internal assessments of the best information available about the local real estate and business market conditions that would be indicative of what the assets could be sold for and are considered to be Level 3 measurements.

Equity_and_Redeemable_Noncontr

Equity and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Equity And Noncontrolling Interests Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Equity And Noncontrolling Interests Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	NOTE 14. EQUITY AND REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS
	Praxair, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity
	At December 31, 2013 and 2012, there were 800,000,000 shares of common stock authorized (par value $0.01 per share) of which 383,230,625 shares were issued and 294,133,864 were outstanding at December 31, 2013 (383,073,446 shares were issued and 296,229,480 were outstanding at December 31, 2012).
	At December 31, 2013 and 2012, there were 25,000,000 shares of preferred stock (par value $0.01 per share) authorized, of which no shares were issued and outstanding. Praxair’s board of directors may from time to time authorize the issuance of one or more series of preferred stock and, in connection with the creation of such series, determine the characteristics of each such series including, without limitation, the preference and relative, participating, optional or other special rights, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of the series.
	Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
	Noncontrolling interests with redemption features, such as put/sell options, that are not solely within the company’s control (“redeemable noncontrolling interests”) are reported separately in the consolidated balance sheets at the greater of carrying value or redemption value. For redeemable noncontrolling interests that are not yet exercisable, Praxair calculates the redemption value by accreting the carrying value to the redemption value over the period until exercisable. If the redemption value is greater than the carrying value, any increase is adjusted directly to retained earnings and does not impact net income.
	During 2011, Praxair acquired a controlling interest in Yara Praxair, a joint venture in Scandinavia that was previously accounted for as an equity investment (see Note 3). As part of the transaction, the noncontrolling shareholder obtained the right to sell its shares to Praxair starting in 2015 for a period of 4 years at a formula price. Praxair also obtained the right to purchase the shares held by the noncontrolling shareholder starting in 2017 for a period of 2 years, also at a formula price. Accordingly, the noncontrolling interests related to Yara Praxair have been recorded in the consolidated balance sheets as redeemable noncontrolling interests. Other redeemable noncontrolling interests relate to three packaged gas distributors in the United States where the noncontrolling shareholders have put options.
	The following is a summary of redeemable noncontrolling interests for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012			2011
	Beginning Balance	$	252		$	220		$	—
	Reclassification from noncontrolling interest as of October 1, 2011	—			—			65
	Yara Praxair transaction	—			—			119
	Net income	24			18			2
	Distributions to noncontrolling interest	(11		)	(9		)	—
	Redemption value adjustment/accretion	53			13			35
	Foreign currency translation and other	(11		)	10			(1		)
	Ending Balance	$	307		$	252		$	220

ShareBased_Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Share-Based Compensation	'
	NOTE 15. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
	Share-based compensation expense was $70 million in 2013 and 2012, and $62 million in 2011. The related income tax benefit recognized was $21 million in 2013 and 2012, and $19 million in 2011. The share-based compensation expense was primarily recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses and no share-based compensation expense was capitalized.
	Summary of Plans
	Effective April 28, 2009, the board of directors and shareholders of the company adopted the 2009 Praxair, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan ("the 2009 Plan"), which replaced the 2002 Praxair, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan ("the 2002 Plan"). Equity awards are no longer granted under the 2002 Plan. The 2009 Plan provides for similar equity awards and limitations as the 2002 Plan. The 2009 Plan provides for the granting of stock options and stock appreciation rights, restricted stock and restricted stock units, performance-based stock units and other equity awards. Under the 2009 Plan, the initial aggregate number of shares available for option and other equity grants is 12,000,000 shares, of which up to 4,000,000 shares may be granted as either restricted stock, restricted stock units or performance-based stock units. The 2009 Plan also provides calendar year per-participant limits on grants of stock options and stock appreciation rights, restricted stock and restricted stock units, and performance-based stock units. As of December 31, 2013, 4,543,979 shares remained available for equity grants under this Plan. Both officer and non-officer employees are eligible for awards under the 2009 Plan.
	In 2005, the board of directors and shareholders of the company adopted the 2005 Equity Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors of Praxair, Inc. ("the 2005 Plan"). Under the 2005 Plan, the aggregate number of shares available for option and other equity grants was limited to a total of 500,000 shares. The 2005 Plan expired during 2010, by its own terms, and no shares were available for grant thereafter.
	Exercise prices for options granted under the 2009 and 2005 Plans may not be less than the closing market price of the company’s common stock on the date of grant and granted options may not be repriced or exchanged without shareholder approval. Options granted under the 2009 and 2005 Plans may become partially exercisable after a minimum of one year after the date of grant but may not become fully exercisable until at least three years have elapsed from the date of grant, and have a maximum duration of ten years. Options granted under predecessor plans had similar terms.
	The company has the ability to repurchase shares on the open market to satisfy share option exercises and issues shares from treasury stock upon the exercise of certain stock options.
	Stock Option Fair Value
	The company utilizes the Black-Scholes Options-Pricing Model to determine the fair value of stock options consistent with that used for pro forma disclosures in prior years. Management is required to make certain assumptions with respect to selected model inputs, including anticipated changes in the underlying stock price (i.e., expected volatility) and option exercise activity (i.e., expected life). Expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the company’s stock over the most recent period commensurate with the estimated expected life of the company’s stock options and other factors. The expected life of options granted, which represents the period of time that the options are expected to be outstanding, is based primarily on historical exercise experience. The expected dividend yield is based on the company’s most recent history and expectation of dividend payouts. The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for a period commensurate with the estimated expected life. If factors change and result in different assumptions in future periods, the stock option expense that the company records for future grants may differ significantly from what the company has recorded in the current period.
	The weighted-average fair value of options granted during 2013 was $16.31 per option ($17.43 in 2012 and $17.70 in 2011) based on the Black-Scholes Options-Pricing model. The following weighted-average assumptions were used for grants in 2013, 2012 and 2011:
	Year Ended December 31,	2013		2012		2011
	Dividend yield	2.2	%	2	%	2	%
	Volatility	21.7	%	22.5	%	22.3	%
	Risk-free interest rate	0.76	%	0.86	%	2.2	%
	Expected term years	5		5		5
	The following table summarizes option activity under the plans for 2013 (averages are calculated on a weighted basis; life in years; intrinsic value expressed in millions):
	Activity	Number  of		Average			Average		Aggregate
		Options		Exercise			Remaining		Intrinsic
		(000’s)		Price			Life		Value
	Outstanding at January 1, 2012	12,281		$	74.05
	Granted	1,308		110.58
	Exercised	(2,357	)	58.46
	Cancelled or expired	(71	)	106.15
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	11,161		$	81.42		5.5		$	543
	Exercisable at December 31, 2013	8,324		$	72.4		4.5		$	480
	The aggregate intrinsic value represents the difference between the company’s closing stock price of $130.03 as of December 31, 2013 and the exercise price multiplied by the number of options outstanding as of that date. The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during 2013 was $143 million ($165 million and $191 million for 2012 and 2011, respectively).
	Cash received from option exercises under all share-based payment arrangements for 2013 was $138 million . The cash tax benefit realized from all share-based compensation totaled $62 million for 2013, of which $46 million in excess tax benefits was classified as financing cash flows.
	As of December 31, 2013, $22 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 1 year.
	Performance-Based and Restricted Stock Awards
	In 2013, the company granted performance-based stock awards under the 2009 Plans to senior level executives of 415,687 shares that vest principally based on the third anniversary of their date of grant. The actual number of shares issued in settlement of a vested award can range from zero to 200 percent of the target number of shares granted based upon the company’s attainment of specified performance targets at the end of a three-year period. Compensation expense related to these awards is recognized over the three-year performance period based on the fair value of the closing market price of the company’s common stock on the date of the grant and the estimated performance that will be achieved. Compensation expense will be adjusted during the three-year performance period based upon the estimated performance levels that will be achieved.
	There were 118,612 restricted stock units granted to employees during 2013. In addition, the company had previously granted restricted stock to certain key employees that vest after a designated service period ranging from 2 to 10 years. Generally, restricted stock does not earn quarterly dividends while vesting. Compensation expense related to the restricted stock units and restricted stock is recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period.
	The weighted-average fair value of performance-based stock units granted during 2013 was $103.46 per unit ($103.13 in 2012 and $92.06 in 2011). The weighted-average fair value of restricted stock units granted during 2013 was $105.79 per unit ($104.71 in 2012 and $92.39 in 2011). This is based on the closing market price of the company’s common stock on the grant date adjusted for dividends that will not be paid during the vesting period.
	The following table summarizes non-vested performance-based and restricted stock award activity as of December 31, 2013 and changes during the period then ended (shares based on target amounts, averages are calculated on a weighted basis):
		Performance-Based					Restricted Stock
	Performance-Based and Restricted Stock Activity	Number of		Average			Number of			Average
		Shares		Grant Date			Shares			Grant Date
		(000’s)		Fair Value			(000’s)			Fair Value
	Non-vested at January 1, 2013	840		$	88.83		368			$	89.89
	Granted (a)	416		103.46			119			105.79
	Vested	(371	)	70.95			(136	)		77.08
	Cancelled	(18	)	101.52			(14	)		101.15
	Non-vested at December 31, 2013	867		$	99.55		337			$	100.41
	(a)	Performance-based stock unit grants during 2013 include 98 thousand shares relating to the actual payout of the 2010 PSU grants in 2013.
	As of December 31, 2013, based on current estimates of future performance, $36 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to performance-based awards and $14 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to the restricted stock awards is expected to be recognized on a straight-line basis primarily through the first quarter of 2016.

Retirement_Programs

Retirement Programs	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
General Discussion of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract]	'
Retirement Programs	'
	NOTE 16. RETIREMENT PROGRAMS
	Defined Benefit Pension Plans
	Praxair has two main U.S. retirement programs which are non-contributory defined benefit plans: the Praxair Pension Plan and the CBI Pension Plan. The latter program benefits primarily former employees of CBI Industries, Inc. which Praxair acquired in 1996. Effective July 1, 2002, the Praxair Pension Plan was amended to give participating employees a one-time choice to remain covered by the old formula or to elect coverage under a new formula. The old formula is based predominantly on years of service, age and compensation levels prior to retirement, while the new formula provides for an annual contribution to an individual account which grows with interest each year at a predetermined rate. Also, this new formula applies to all new employees hired after April 30, 2002 into businesses adopting this plan. The U.S. and international pension plan assets are comprised of a diversified mix of investments, including domestic and international corporate equities, government securities and corporate debt securities. Praxair has several plans that provide supplementary retirement benefits primarily to higher level employees that are unfunded and are nonqualified for federal tax purposes. Pension coverage for employees of certain of Praxair’s international subsidiaries generally is provided by those companies through separate plans. Obligations under such plans are primarily provided for through diversified investment portfolios, with some smaller plans provided for under insurance policies or by book reserves.
	Multi-employer Pension Plans
	In the United States Praxair participates in seven multi-employer defined benefit pension plans ("MEP") pursuant to the terms of collective bargaining agreements covering approximately 200 union-represented employees. The collective bargaining agreements expire on different dates through 2016. In connection with such agreements, the Company is required to make periodic contributions to the MEPs in accordance with the terms of the respective collective bargaining agreements. Praxair’s participation in these plans is not significant either at the plan level or in the aggregate. Praxair’s contributions to these plans were $2 million in 2013 and $1 million, in 2012 and 2011 (the cost is not included in the tables that follow). For all MEPs Praxair’s contributions were significantly less than 1% of the total contributions to each plan for 2012 and 2011. Total 2013 contributions were not yet available from the MEPs.
	Praxair has obtained the most recently available Pension Protection Act ("PPA") zone status letters from the Trustees of the MEPs. The PPA classifies MEPs as either Red, Yellow or Green zone plans. Among other factors, plans in the Red zone are generally less than 65 percent funded; plans in the Yellow zone are generally 65 to 80 percent funded; and plans in the Green zone are generally at least 80 percent funded. According to the most current data available, four of the MEPs that the Company participates are in a Red zone status; one is in a Yellow zone status; and two are in a Green zone status. As of December 31, 2013, the five Red and Yellow Zone plans have pending or have implemented financial improvement or rehabilitation plans. Praxair does not currently anticipate significant future obligations due to the funding status of these plans. If Praxair determined it was probable that it would withdraw from an MEP, the Company would record a liability for its portion of the MEP’s unfunded pension obligations, as calculated at that time. Historically, such withdrawal payments have not been significant.
	Defined Contribution Plans
	Praxair’s U.S. business employees are eligible to participate in the Praxair defined contribution savings plan. Employees may contribute up to 40% of their compensation, subject to the maximum allowable by IRS regulations. For the US packaged gases business, company contributions to this plan are calculated as a percentage of salary based on age plus service. U.S. employees other than those in the packaged gases business have company contributions to this plan calculated on a graduated scale based on employee contributions to the plan. The cost for these defined contribution plans was $25 million in 2013, $24 million in 2012 and $22 million in 2011 (the cost is not included in the tables that follow).
	The defined contribution plans includes a non-leveraged employee stock ownership plan ("ESOP") which covers all employees participating in this plan. The collective number of shares of Praxair common stock in the two ESOPs totaled 3,208,478 at December 31, 2013.
	Certain international subsidiaries of the company also sponsor defined contribution plans where contributions are determined under various formulas. The cost for these plans was $17 million in 2013 and $12 million in 2012 and 2011 (the cost is not included in the tables that follow).
	Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions (OPEB)
	Praxair provides health care and life insurance benefits to certain eligible retired employees. These benefits are provided through various insurance companies and healthcare providers. Praxair is also obligated to make payments for a portion of postretirement benefits related to retirees of Praxair’s former parent. Additionally, as part of the CBI acquisition in 1996, Praxair assumed responsibility for healthcare and life insurance benefit obligations for CBI’s retired employees. All postretirement healthcare programs have cost caps that limit the company’s exposure to future cost increases. In addition, as part of the retirement elections made for July 1, 2002, eligible employees were given the choice of maintaining coverage in the current retiree medical design (as may be amended from time to time), or to move to a design whereby coverage would be provided, but with no Praxair subsidy whatsoever. Also, all new employees hired after April 30, 2002 into a business adopting these plans will not receive a company subsidy. Praxair does not currently fund its postretirement benefits obligations. Praxair’s retiree plans may be changed or terminated by Praxair at any time for any reason with no liability to current or future retirees.
	Praxair uses a measurement date of December 31 for its pension and other post-retirement benefit plans.
	Pension and Postretirement Benefit Costs
	The components of net pension and OPEB costs for 2013, 2012 and 2011 are shown below:
	(Millions of dollars)	Pensions												OPEB
	Year Ended December 31,	2013				2012				2011				2013				2012			2011
	Service cost	$	56			$	49			$	44			$	5			$	4		$	4
	Interest cost	112				119				120				11				12			14
	Expected return on plan assets	(149		)		(153		)		(147		)		—				—			—
	Net amortization and deferral	91				68				43				(5		)		(7		)	(6		)
	Net periodic benefit cost before pension settlement charges	$	110			$	83			$	60			$	11			$	9		$	12
	Pension settlement charges *	9				10				6				—				—			—
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	119			$	93			$	66			$	11			$	9		$	12
	* 2012 and 2013 includes a $9 million charges in the third quarter related to the retirement of senior managers in the United States (see Note 2)
	Funded Status
	The changes in benefit obligation and plan assets for Praxair’s pension and OPEB programs, including reconciliation of the funded status of the plans to amounts recorded in the consolidated balance sheet, as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 are shown below:
	(Millions of dollars)	Pensions
	Year Ended December 31,	2013								2012								OPEB
		U.S.				International				U.S.				International				2013			2012
	Change in Benefit Obligation ("PBO")
	Benefit obligation January 1	$	1,926			$	727			$	1,721			$	624			$	251		$	226
	Service cost	38				18				34				15				5			4
	Interest cost	74				38				79				40				11			12
	Participant contributions	—				—				—				—				11			9
	Actuarial loss (gain)	(148		)		(43		)		182				89				(39		)	31
	Benefits paid	(99		)		(38		)		(90		)		(43		)		(23		)	(29		)
	Foreign currency translation	—				(41		)		—				2				(8		)	(2		)
	Benefit obligation, December 31	$	1,791			$	661			$	1,926			$	727			$	208		$	251
	Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO")	$	1,712			$	629			$	1,831			$	678
	Change in Plan Assets
	Fair value of plan assets, January 1	$	1,391			$	558			$	1,138			$	504			$	—		$	—
	Actual return on plan assets	271				43				159				70				—			—
	Company contributions	35				17				165				19				—			—
	Benefits paid from plan assets	(77		)		(33		)		(71		)		(39		)		—			—
	Foreign currency translation	—				(34		)		—				4				—			—
	Fair value of plan assets, December 31	$	1,620			$	551			$	1,391			$	558			$	—		$	—
	Funded Status, End of Year	$	(171	)		$	(110	)		$	(535	)		$	(169	)		$	(208	)	$	(251	)
	Recorded in the Balance Sheet
	Other long-term assets	$	—			$	42			$	—			$	—			$	—		$	—
	Other current liabilities	(10		)		(6		)		(21		)		(6		)		(17		)	(19		)
	Other long-term liabilities	(161		)		(146		)		(514		)		(163		)		(191		)	(232		)
	Net amount recognized, December 31	$	(171	)		$	(110	)		$	(535	)		$	(169	)		$	(208	)	$	(251	)
	Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consist of:
	Net actuarial loss (gain)	$	563			$	145			$	956			$	217			$	(7	)	$	34
	Prior service cost (credit)	1				18				(1		)		23				(4		)	(10		)
	Deferred tax benefit (Note 5)	(215		)		(38		)		(364		)		(56		)		6			(7		)
	Amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Note 7)	$	349			$	125			$	591			$	184			$	(5	)	$	17
	The changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income in 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
		Pensions								OPEB
	(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012				2013				2012
	Current year net actuarial loss (gain)*	$	(356	)		$	195			$	(39	)		$	31
	Amortization of net actuarial loss	(90		)		(67		)		(1		)		—
Amortization of prior service costs	(1		)		(1		)		6				7
Pension settlements	(9		)		(10		)		—				—
Foreign currency translation and other	(12		)		3				(1		)		(1		)
Total recognized in other comprehensive income	$	(468	)		$	120			$	(35	)		$	37
________________________
*	The pension net actuarial gain in 2013 relates primarily to the increase in discount rates, when compared to 2012. The pension net actuarial loss in 2012 relates primarily to lower discount rates, when compared to 2011. The OPEB net actuarial gain in 2013 relates primarily to higher discount rates, and the 2012 net actuarial loss relates primarily to lower discount rates.
The amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost during 2014 are as follows:
(Millions of dollars)	Pension				OPEB
Net actuarial loss (gain)	$	59			$	—
Prior service cost (credit)	1				(6		)
	$	60			$	(6	)
The following table provides information for pension plans where the accumulated benefit obligation exceeds the fair value of the plan assets:
(Millions of dollars)	Pensions
Year Ended December 31,	2013								2012
	U.S.*				International				U.S.				International
Projected benefit obligation ("PBO")	$	244			$	360			$	1,926			$	402
Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO")	$	241			$	352			$	1,831			$	391
Fair value of plan assets	$	127			$	207			$	1,391			$	246
* In 2013, plan assets related to the main U.S. retirement program exceeded the ABO by $23 million and was therefore excluded from the table above.
Assumptions
The assumptions used to determine the benefit obligations are as of the respective balance sheet date and the assumptions used to determine the net benefit cost are at the previous year-end, as shown below:
	Pensions
	U.S.						International						OPEB
	2013			2012			2013			2012			2013			2012
Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31,
Discount rate	4.8	%		3.9	%		6.3	%		5.8	%		5.87	%		5	%
Rate of increase in compensation levels	3.25	%		3.25	%		4	%		4	%		N/A			N/A
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for years ended December 31,
Discount rate	3.9	%		4.7	%		5.8	%		7	%		5	%		5.7	%
Rate of increase in compensation levels	3.25	%		3.25	%		4	%		3.9	%		N/A			N/A
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets *	8	%		8.25	%		7.5	%		8.7	%		N/A			N/A
________________________
*	The expected long term rate of return on the U.S. and international plan assets is estimated based on the plans' investment strategy and asset allocation, historical capital market performance and, to a lesser extent, historical plan performance. For the U.S. plans, the expected rate of return of 8.00% was derived based on the target asset allocation of 60%-80% equity securities (approximately 9.5% expected return), and 20%-40% fixed income securities (approximately 5.5% expected return). For the international plans, the expected rate of return was derived based on the weighted average target asset allocation of 30%-50% equity securities (approximately 10% expected return), 40%-60% fixed income securities (approximately 7.5% expected return), and 0%-10% alternative investments (approximately 7.5% expected return). For the U.S. plan assets, the actual annualized total returns for the most recent 10-year and 20-year periods ended December 31, 2013 were approximately 6.7% and 7.8%, respectively. For the international plan assets, the actual annualized total returns for the same two periods were approximately 7.6% and 8.9%, respectively. Changes to plan asset allocations and investment strategy over this time period limit the value of historical plan performance as factor in estimating the expected long term rate of return. For 2014, the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets will be 8.00% for the U.S. plans. Expected weighted average returns for international plans will vary.
	OPEB
Assumed healthcare cost trend rates	2013			2012
Healthcare cost trend assumed	8	%		8.5	%
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)	5	%		5	%
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2020			2020
These healthcare-cost trend rate assumptions have an impact on the amounts reported. However, cost caps limit the impact on the net OPEB benefit cost in the U.S. To illustrate the effect, a one-percentage point change in assumed healthcare cost trend rates would have the following effects:
	One-Percentage Point
(Millions of dollars)	Increase				Decrease
Effect on the total of service and interest cost components of net OPEB benefit cost	$	1			$	(1	)
Effect on OPEB benefit obligation	$	6			$	(5	)
Pension Plan Assets
The investments of the U.S. pension plan are managed to meet the future expected benefit liabilities of the plan over the long term by investing in diversified portfolios consistent with prudent diversification and historical and expected capital market returns. When Praxair became an independent, publicly traded company in 1992, its former parent retained all liabilities for its term-vested and retired employees. Praxair’s plan received assets and retained pension liabilities for its own active employee base. Therefore, the liabilities under the Praxair U.S. pension plan mature at a later date compared to pension funds of other similar companies. Investment strategies are reviewed by the Finance and Pension Committee of the company’s Board of Directors and investment performance is tracked against appropriate benchmarks. There are no concentrations of risk as it relates to the assets within the plans.
The international pension plans are managed individually based on diversified investment portfolios, with different target asset allocations that vary for each plan. Praxair’s U.S. and international pension plans’ weighted-average asset allocations at December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the target asset allocation range for 2013, by major asset category are as follows:
	U.S.									International
Asset Category	Target			2013			2012			Target		2013			2012
Equity securities	60%-80%			70	%		64	%		30%-50%		48	%		37	%
Fixed income securities	20%-40%			30	%		36	%		40%-60%		43	%		54	%
Other	—			—			—			0%-10%		9	%		9	%
The following table summarizes pension assets measured at fair value by asset category at December 31, 2013 and 2012. During the years presented, there has been no transfer of assets between Levels 1, 2 & 3 (see Note 13 for definition of the levels):
	Fair Value Measurements Using
	Level 1								Level 2								Level 3 *						Total
(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012				2013				2012				2013			2012			2013		2012
Cash and cash equivalents	$	2			$	8			$	—			$	—			$	—		$	—		$	2	$	8
Equity securities:
U.S. equities	285				372				—				—				—			—			285		372
International equities	82				72				—				—				—			—			82		72
Mutual funds	393				316				—				—				—			—			393		316
Pooled funds	—				—				630				333				—			—			630		333
Fixed income securities:
U.S. government bonds	39				48				—				—				—			—			39		48
International government bonds	128				184				—				—				—			—			128		184
Mutual funds	308				312				—				—				—			—			308		312
Corporate bonds	—				—				176				169				—			—			176		169
Pooled funds	—				—				80				87				—			—			80		87
Other:
Insurance contracts	—				—				—				—				48			48			48		48
Fair value of plan assets, December 31,	$	1,237			$	1,312			$	886			$	589			$	48		$	48		$	2,171	$	1,949
________________________
*	The following table summarizes changes in fair value of the pension plan assets classified as level 3 for the periods ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
(Millions of dollars)	Insurance
	Contracts
Balance, December 31, 2011	$	49
Gain or losses for the period	1
Acquisitions	—
Net settlements	(2		)
Balance, December 31, 2012	48
Gain or losses for the period	—
Net settlements	—
Balance, December 31, 2013	$	48
The descriptions and fair value methodologies for the U.S. and international pension plan assets are as follows:
Cash and Cash Equivalents – This category includes cash and short-term interest bearing investments with maturities of three months or less. Investments are valued at cost plus accrued interest. Cash and cash equivalents are classified within level 1 of the valuation hierarchy.
Equity Securities – This category is comprised of shares of common stock in U.S. and international companies from a diverse set of industries and size. Common stock is valued at the closing market price reported on a U.S. or international exchange where the security is actively traded. Equity securities are classified within level 1 of the valuation hierarchy.
Mutual Funds and Pooled Funds – This category consists of publicly and privately managed funds that invest primarily in marketable equity and fixed income securities. The fair value of these investments is determined by reference to the net asset value of the underlying securities of the fund. Shares of publicly traded mutual funds are valued at the net asset value quoted on the exchange where the fund is traded and are classified as level 1 within the valuation hierarchy. Units of pooled funds are valued at the per unit net asset value determined by the fund manager and are classified as level 2 within the valuation hierarchy.
U.S. and International Government Bonds – This category includes U.S. treasuries, U.S. federal agency obligations and international government debt. The majority of these investments are valued at the closing market prices reported on the exchange where the security is traded and are classified as level 1 within the valuation hierarchy. If quoted market prices are not available for a specific government security, the fair value is determined using quoted prices of similar securities in active markets and is classified as level 2 within the valuation hierarchy.
Corporate Bonds – This category is comprised of corporate bonds of U.S. and international companies from a diverse set of industries and size. The fair values for U.S. and international corporate bonds are determined using quoted prices of similar securities in active markets and observable data or broker or dealer quotations. The fair values for these investments are classified as level 2 within the valuation hierarchy.
Insurance Contracts – The fair value of insurance contracts is determined based on the cash surrender value of the insurance contract, which is determined based on such factors as the fair value of the underlying assets and discounted cash flow. These contracts are with highly rated insurance companies. Insurance contracts are classified within level 3 of the valuation hierarchy.
Contributions
At a minimum, Praxair contributes to its pension plans to comply with local regulatory requirements (e.g., ERISA in the United States). Discretionary contributions in excess of the local minimum requirements are made based on many factors, including long-term projections of the plans' funded status, the economic environment, potential risk of overfunding, pension insurance costs and alternative uses of the cash. Changes to these factors can impact the timing of discretionary contributions from year to year. Pension contributions were $52 million in 2013, $184 million in 2012 and $94 million in 2011. Estimates of 2014 contributions are in the area of $25 million.
Estimated Future Benefit Payments
The following table presents estimated future benefit payments, net of participants contributions:
(Millions of dollars)	Pensions
Year Ended December 31,	U.S.				International				OPEB
2014	$	94			$	37			$	18
2015	101				36				19
2016	104				37				18
2017	110				38				18
2018	115				39				17
2019 – 2023	630				206				75

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments And Contingencies	'
	NOTE 17. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
	The company accrues non income-tax liabilities for contingencies when management believes that a loss is probable and the amounts can be reasonably estimated, while contingent gains are recognized only when realized. In the event any losses are sustained in excess of accruals, they will be charged against income at that time. Attorney fees are recorded as incurred. Commitments represent obligations, such as those for future purchases of goods or services, that are not yet recorded on the company’s balance sheet as liabilities. The company records liabilities for commitments when incurred (i.e., when the goods or services are received).
	Contingent Liabilities
	Praxair is subject to various lawsuits and government investigations that arise from time to time in the ordinary course of business. These actions are based upon alleged environmental, tax, antitrust and personal injury claims, among others. Praxair has strong defenses in these cases and intends to defend itself vigorously. However, it is possible that the company may incur losses in connection with some of these actions in excess of accrued liabilities. Management does not anticipate that in the aggregate such losses would have a material adverse effect on the company’s consolidated financial position or liquidity; however, it is possible that the final outcomes could have a significant impact on the company’s reported results of operations in any given period.
	Among such matters are:
	•	Claims by the Brazilian taxing authorities against several of the company’s Brazilian subsidiaries relating to non-income and income tax matters.
	During May 2009, the Brazilian government published Law 11941/2009 instituting a new voluntary amnesty program (“Refis Program”) which allowed Brazilian companies to settle certain federal tax disputes at reduced amounts. During the 2009 third quarter, Praxair decided that it was economically beneficial to settle many of its outstanding federal tax disputes and these disputes were enrolled in the Refis Program and settled. The final settlement related to the Refis Program is subject to final calculation and review by the Brazilian federal government and, although the timing is very difficult to estimate, the company currently anticipates this review will conclude during the next year. Any differences from amounts recorded will be adjusted to income at that time.
	After enrollment in the amnesty programs, at December 31, 2013 the most significant remaining claims relate to state VAT tax matters associated with procedural issues and a federal income tax matter where the taxing authorities are challenging the tax rate that should be applied to income generated by a subsidiary company. The total estimated exposure relating to such claims, including interest and penalties, as appropriate, is approximately $188 million. Praxair has not recorded any liabilities related to such claims based on management judgments, after considering judgments and opinions of outside counsel. Because litigation in Brazil historically takes many years to resolve, it is very difficult to estimate the timing of resolution of these matters; however, it is possible that certain of these matters may be resolved within the near term. The company is vigorously defending against the proceedings.
	•	On September 1, 2010, CADE ("Brazilian Administrative Council for Economic Defense") announced alleged anticompetitive activity on the part of five industrial gas companies in Brazil and imposed fines on all five companies. Originally, CADE imposed a civil fine of R$2.2 billion Brazilian reais (US$939 million) against White Martins, the Brazil-based subsidiary of Praxair, Inc. In response to a motion for clarification, the fine was reduced to R$1.7 billion Brazilian reais (US$726 million) due to a calculation error made by CADE. The amount of the fine is subject to indexation using SELIC. On September 2, 2010, Praxair issued a press release and filed a report on Form 8-K rejecting all claims and stating that the fine represents a gross and arbitrary disregard of Brazilian law.
	On October 19, 2010, White Martins filed an annulment petition (“appeal”) with the Federal Court in Brasilia seeking to have the fine against White Martins overturned. In order to suspend payment of the fine pending the completion of the appeal process, Brazilian law required that the company tender a form of guarantee in the amount of the fine as security. Currently, 50% of the guarantee is satisfied by letters of credit with a financial institution and 50% of the guarantee is satisfied by a pledge of equity of a Brazilian subsidiary.
	Praxair strongly believes that the allegations are without merit and that the fine will be entirely overturned during the appeal process. The company further believes that it has strong defenses and will vigorously defend against the allegations and related fine up to such levels of the Federal Courts in Brazil as may be necessary. Because appeals in Brazil historically take many years to resolve, it is very difficult to estimate when the appeal will be finally decided. Based on management judgments, after considering judgments and opinions of outside counsel, no reserve has been recorded for this proceeding as management does not believe that a loss is probable.
	Contingent Asset - Resolution
	Praxair's Brazilian-based subsidiary, White Martins, had a long-standing claim against a Brazilian power company, Bandeirante Energia SA, which had been successfully litigated, and in 2011 the courts released a cash deposit to White Martins, subject to completion of an appeal process. During the first quarter of 2012, White Martins was notified that the appeal process was favorably concluded, and accordingly, recognized a $24 million gain to other income (expense), net of legal fees and another litigation matter.
	Commitments and Contractual Obligations
	The following table sets forth Praxair’s material commitments and contractual obligations as of December 31, 2013, excluding leases, tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions, long-term debt, other post retirement and pension obligations which are summarized elsewhere in the financial statements (see Notes 4, 7, 11, and 16):
	(Millions of dollars)	Unconditional		Construction		Guarantees
	Expiring through December 31,	Purchase		Commitments		and Other
		Obligations
	2014	$	529	$	1,071	$	45
	2015	444		515		9
	2016	421		117		—
	2017	409		—		—
	2018	404		—		—
	Thereafter	3,542		—		18
		$	5,749	$	1,703	$	72
	Unconditional purchase obligations of $5,749 million represent contractual commitments under various long and short-term take-or-pay arrangements with suppliers and are not included on Praxair's balance sheet. These obligations are primarily minimum-purchase commitments for helium, electricity, natural gas and feedstock used to produce atmospheric and process gases. A significant portion of these obligations is passed on to customers through similar take-or-pay or other contractual arrangements. Purchase obligations that are not passed along to customers through such contractual arrangements are subject to market conditions, but do not represent a material risk to Praxair. During 2013, payments related to Praxair's unconditional purchase obligations totaled $1,138 million, including $649 million for electricity and $227 million for natural gas. Approximately, $3,801 million of the purchase obligations relates to power and are intended to secure the uninterrupted supply of electricity and feedstock to our plants in order for Praxair to reliably satisfy customer product supply obligations, and extend through 2030. Certain of the power contracts contain various cancellation provisions requiring supplier agreement which the company believes could reduce the reported obligation significantly, if desired, and many are subject to annual escalations based on local inflation factors. The purchase obligations also include a multi-year contract for silane, with a total purchase obligation of $161 million as of December 31, 2013. Since this contract was signed, the market for silane has not developed as expected and prices have decreased due to lower demand from the photovoltaics markets, primarily in Asia. At December 31, 2013, Praxair's current selling prices and estimated future demand for silane are in excess of its contractual purchase obligations under the contract. The company is continually monitoring market developments.
	Construction commitments of $1,703 million represent outstanding commitments to complete authorized construction projects as of December 31, 2013. A significant portion of Praxair’s capital spending is related to the construction of new production facilities to satisfy customer commitments which may take a year or more to complete.
	Guarantees and other of $72 million include $70 million related to Praxair’s contingent obligations under guarantees of certain debt of unconsolidated affiliates and $2 million of various guarantees relating to outstanding receivables and repurchase agreements. Unconsolidated equity investees had total debt of approximately $489 million at December 31, 2013, which was non-recourse to Praxair with the exception of the guaranteed portions described above. Praxair has no significant financing arrangements with closely-held related parties.
	At December 31, 2013, Praxair had undrawn outstanding letters of credit, bank guarantees and surety bonds valued at approximately $1,464 million from financial institutions, including $541 million relating to the CADE anti-trust litigation in Brazil. These related primarily to customer contract performance guarantees (including plant construction in connection with certain on-site contracts), self-insurance claims and other commercial and governmental requirements, including foreign litigation matters.

Segments

Segments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Information	'
	NOTE 18. SEGMENT INFORMATION
	The company’s operations are organized into five reportable segments, four of which have been determined on a geographic basis of segmentation: North America, Europe, South America and Asia. In addition, Praxair operates its worldwide surface technologies business through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Praxair Surface Technologies, Inc., which represents the fifth reportable segment.
	Praxair’s operations consist of two major product lines: industrial gases and surface technologies. The industrial gases product line centers on the manufacturing and distribution of atmospheric gases (oxygen, nitrogen, argon, rare gases) and process gases (carbon dioxide, helium, hydrogen, electronic gases, specialty gases, acetylene). Many of these products are co-products of the same manufacturing process. Praxair manufactures and distributes nearly all of its products and manages its customer relationships on a regional basis. Praxair’s industrial gases are distributed to various end markets within a regional segment through one of three basic distribution methods: on-site or tonnage; merchant or bulk; and packaged or cylinder gases. The distribution methods are generally integrated in order to best meet the customer’s needs and very few of its products can be economically transported outside of a region. Therefore, the distribution economics are specific to the various geographies in which the company operates and are consistent with how management assesses performance.
	Praxair evaluates the performance of its reportable segments based primarily on operating profit, excluding inter-company royalties and special items. Accordingly, for 2013, segment operating profit excludes a $32 million loss associated with the impact of the Venezuela currency devaluation and pension settlement charge; 2012 excludes a $65 million loss associated with the cost reduction program and pension settlement charge; and 2011 excludes $1 million net loss associated with the acquisition and cost reduction program (see Note 2). Corporate and globally managed expenses, and research and development costs relating to Praxair’s global industrial gases business, are allocated to operating segments based on sales.
	The table below presents information about reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.
	(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012			2011
	Sales (a)
	North America	$	6,164		$	5,598		$	5,490
	Europe	1,542			1,474			1,458
	South America	2,042			2,082			2,308
	Asia	1,525			1,414			1,348
	Surface Technologies	652			656			648
		$	11,925		$	11,224		$	11,252
		2013			2012			2011
	Operating Profit
	North America	$	1,538		$	1,465		$	1,331
	Europe	270			256			272
	South America	467			429			530
	Asia	271			246			234
	Surface Technologies	111			106			102
	Segment operating profit	2,657			2,502			2,469
	Venezuela currency devaluation and other charges (Note 2)	(32		)	(65		)	(1		)
	Total operating profit	$	2,625		$	2,437		$	2,468
		2013			2012			2011
	Total Assets (b)
	North America	$	10,133		$	8,491		$	7,402
	Europe	3,408			2,957			2,728
	South America	2,934			3,205			3,194
	Asia	3,098			2,757			2,366
	Surface Technologies	682			680			666
		$	20,255		$	18,090		$	16,356
	(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012			2011
	Depreciation and Amortization
	North America	$	567		$	498		$	495
	Europe	169			149			141
	South America	181			184			197
	Asia	150			127			126
	Surface Technologies	42			43			44
		$	1,109		$	1,001		$	1,003
		2013			2012			2011
	Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions
	North America	$	2,106		$	1,303		$	880
	Europe	451			322			339
	South America	284			351			396
	Asia	459			431			431
	Surface Technologies	43			53			45
		$	3,343		$	2,460		$	2,091
		2013			2012			2011
	Sales by Product Group (c)
	Atmospheric gases and related	$	8,451		$	8,104		$	8,005
	Process gases and other	2,822			2,464			2,599
	Surface technologies	652			656			648
		$	11,925		$	11,224		$	11,252
		2013			2012			2011
	Sales by Major Country
	United States	$	4,764		$	4,305		$	4,206
	Brazil	1,603			1,668			1,931
	Other – foreign	5,558			5,251			5,115
		$	11,925		$	11,224		$	11,252
		2013			2012			2011
	Long-lived Assets by Major Country (d)
	United States	$	4,723		$	4,255		$	3,646
	Brazil	1,376			1,535			1,584
Other – foreign	6,179			5,663			4,901
	$	12,278		$	11,453		$	10,131
________________________
(a)	Sales reflect external sales only. Intersegment Sales, primarily from North America to other segments, were not material.
(b)	Includes equity investments as of December 31, as follows:
(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012			2011
North America*	$	128		$	135		$	49
Europe *	218			199			183
Asia *	356			320			291
	$	702		$	654		$	523
*	The 2013 increase primarily relates to current year equity investment earnings. The 2012 increase in North America relates to the formation of a packaged gas joint venture with Nexair LLC in the Southeastern United States.
(c)	Prior years' amounts have been reclassified to conform to current year's presentation.
(d)	Long-lived assets include property, plant and equipment – net.

Quarterly_Data

Quarterly Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Quarterly Data (Unaudited)	'
	NOTE 19. QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED)
	(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)
	2013	1Q (a)			2Q			3Q (a)		4Q (a)		YEAR (a)
	Sales	$	2,888		$	3,014		$	3,013	$	3,010	$	11,925
	Cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization	$	1,638		$	1,710		$	1,697	$	1,699	$	6,744
	Depreciation and amortization	$	266		$	275		$	281	$	287	$	1,109
	Operating profit	$	600		$	665		$	670	$	690	2,625
	Net income – Praxair, Inc.	$	391		$	445		$	445	$	474	$	1,755
	Basic Per Share Data
	Net income	$	1.32		$	1.5		$	1.51	$	1.61	$	5.94
	Weighted average shares (000’s)	296,604			295,668			295,124		294,697		295,523
	Diluted Per Share Data
	Net income	$	1.3		$	1.49		$	1.49	$	1.59	$	5.87
	Weighted average shares (000’s)	299,700			298,654			298,357		298,225		298,965
	2012	1Q			2Q			3Q (a)		4Q		YEAR (a)
	Sales	$	2,840		$	2,811		$	2,774	$	2,799	$	11,224
	Cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization	$	1,616		$	1,602		$	1,595	$	1,583	$	6,396
	Depreciation and amortization	$	252		$	247		$	248	$	254	$	1,001
	Operating profit	$	627		$	636		$	558	$	616	$	2,437
	Net income – Praxair, Inc.	$	419		$	429		$	430	$	414	$	1,692
	Basic Per Share Data
	Net income	$	1.4		$	1.43		$	1.44	$	1.4	$	5.67
	Weighted average shares (000’s)	299,077			298,885			298,416		296,887		298,316
	Diluted Per Share Data
	Net income	$	1.38		$	1.42		$	1.43	$	1.38	$	5.61
	Weighted average shares (000’s)	302,876			302,492			301,731		300,224		301,845
	________________________
	(a)	2013 and 2012 include the impact of the following benefits/(charges) (see Notes 2, 5 & 11):
	(Millions of dollars)	Operating			Net
		Profit/			Income/
		(Loss)			(Loss)
	Venezuela currency devaluation – Q1	$	(23	)	$	(23	)
	Pension settlement charge – Q3	(9		)	(6		)
	Income tax benefit - Q4	—			24
	Bond redemption - Q4	—			(12		)
	Year 2013	$	(32	)	$	(17	)
	Cost reduction program – Q3	$	(56	)	$	(38	)
	Pension settlement charge – Q3	(9		)	(6		)
	Income tax benefit – Q3	—			55
	Year 2012	$	(65	)	$	11

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Principles of Consolidation	'
	Principles of Consolidation – The consolidated financial statements were prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (" U.S. GAAP") and include the accounts of all significant subsidiaries where control exists and, in limited situations, variable-interest entities where the company is the primary beneficiary. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation and any significant related-party transactions have been disclosed.
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure	'
	Equity investments generally consist of 20% to 50% owned operations where the company exercises significant influence, but does not have control. Equity income from equity investments in corporations is reported on an after-tax basis. Pre-tax income from equity investments that are partnerships or limited-liability corporations ("LLC") is included in other income (expenses) – net with related taxes included in Income taxes. Equity investments are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances reflect that an impairment loss may have incurred. Operations less than 20% owned, where the company does not exercise significant influence, are generally carried at cost.
Cost Method Investments, Policy	'
	Changes in ownership interest that result either in consolidation or deconsolidation of an investment are recorded at fair value through earnings, including the retained ownership interest, while changes that do not result in either consolidation or deconsolidation of a subsidiary are treated as equity transactions.
Use of Estimates	'
	Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the 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. While actual results could differ, management believes such estimates to be reasonable.
Revenue Recognition	'
	Revenue Recognition – Product sales represent approximately 89% of consolidated sales while all other sources of revenue are approximately 11% in the aggregate. Revenue is recognized when a firm sales agreement exists, collectability of a fixed or determinable sales price is reasonably assured, and when title and risks of ownership transfer to the customer for product sales or, in the case of other revenues when obligations are satisfied or services are performed. Sales returns and allowances are not a normal practice in the industry and are not significant.
	A small portion of the company’s revenues relate to long-term construction contracts and are generally recognized using the percentage-of-completion method. Under this method, revenues from sales of major equipment, such as large air-separation facilities, are recognized based primarily on cost incurred to date compared with total estimated cost. Changes to total estimated cost and anticipated losses, if any, are recognized in the period determined.
	For contracts that contain multiple products and/or services, amounts assigned to each component are based on its objectively determined fair value, such as the sales price for the component when it is sold separately or competitor prices for similar components.
	Certain of the company’s facilities that are built to provide product to a specific customer are required to be accounted for as leases. The associated revenue streams are classified as rental revenue and are not significant.
	Amounts billed for shipping and handling fees are recorded as sales, generally on FOB destination terms, and costs incurred for shipping and handling are recorded as cost of sales.
	Amounts billed for sales and use taxes, value-added taxes, and certain excise and other specific transactional taxes imposed on revenue producing transactions are presented on a net basis and are not included in sales in the consolidated statement of income.
Cost of Sales	'
	costs incurred for shipping and handling are recorded as cost of sales.
Cash Equivalents	'
	Cash Equivalents – Cash equivalents are considered to be highly liquid securities with original maturities of three months or less.
Inventories	'
	Inventories – Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the average-cost method for most operations and the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method for certain U.S. operations (see Note 7).
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
	Property, Plant and Equipment – Net – Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. The company capitalizes interest as part of the cost of constructing major facilities (see Note 7). Depreciation is calculated on the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from 3 years to 40 years (see Note 8). Praxair uses accelerated depreciation methods for tax purposes where appropriate. Maintenance of property, plant and equipment is generally expensed as incurred.
	The company performs a test for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an individual asset or asset group may not be recoverable. Should projected undiscounted future cash flows be less than the carrying amount of the asset or asset group, an impairment charge reducing the carrying amount to fair value is required. Fair value is determined based on the most appropriate valuation technique, including discounted cash flows.
Asset - Retirement Obligations	'
	Asset-Retirement Obligations – An asset-retirement obligation is recognized in the period in which sufficient information exists to determine the fair value of the liability with a corresponding increase to the carrying amount of the related property, plant and equipment which is then depreciated over its useful life. The liability is initially measured at discounted fair value and then accretion expense is recorded in each subsequent period. The company’s asset-retirement obligations are primarily associated with its on-site long-term supply arrangements where the company has built a facility on land leased from the customer and is obligated to remove the facility at the end of the contract term. The company’s asset-retirement obligations are not material to its consolidated financial statements.
Foreign Currency Translation	'
	Foreign Currency Translation – For most foreign operations, the local currency is the functional currency and translation gains and losses are reported as part of the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) component of equity as a cumulative translation adjustment (see Note 7). For other foreign operations, the U.S. dollar is the functional currency and translation gains and losses are included in other income (expenses) – net.
Financial Instruments	'
	Financial Instruments – Praxair enters into various derivative financial instruments to manage its exposure to fluctuating interest and currency exchange rates and energy costs. Such instruments primarily include interest-rate swap and treasury lock agreements; currency-swap agreements; forward contracts; currency options; and commodity-swap agreements. These instruments are not entered into for trading purposes. Praxair only uses commonly traded and non-leveraged instruments.
	There are two types of derivatives the company enters into: hedges of fair-value exposures and hedges of cash-flow exposures. Fair-value exposures relate to recognized assets or liabilities, and firm commitments; while cash-flow exposures relate to the variability of future cash flows associated with recognized assets or liabilities, or forecasted transactions. When a derivative is executed and hedge accounting is appropriate, it is designated as either a fair-value hedge or a cash-flow hedge. Currently, Praxair designates all interest-rate and commodity-swap agreements as hedges; however, currency contracts are generally not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. All derivatives are linked to an appropriate underlying exposure. On an ongoing basis, the company assesses the hedge effectiveness of all derivatives designated as hedges to determine if they continue to be highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of the underlying hedged items. If it is determined that the hedge is not highly effective, then hedge accounting will be discontinued prospectively and changes in fair value are recorded in the consolidated statements of income.
	Changes in the fair value of derivatives designated as fair-value hedges are recognized in earnings as an offset to the change in the fair values of the underlying exposures being hedged. The changes in fair value of derivatives that are designated as cash-flow hedges are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and are reclassified to earnings as the underlying hedged transaction affects earnings. Any ineffectiveness is recognized in earnings immediately. Hedges of net investments in foreign subsidiaries are recognized in the cumulative translation adjustment component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the consolidated balance sheets to offset translation gains and losses associated with the hedged net investment. Derivatives that are entered into for risk-management purposes and are not designated as hedges (primarily related to anticipated net income and currency derivatives other than for firm commitments) are recorded at their fair market values and recognized in current earnings.
	See Note 12 for additional information relating to financial instruments.
Goodwill	'
	Goodwill – Acquisitions are accounted for using the acquisition method which requires allocation of the purchase price to assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on estimated fair values. Any excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired is recorded as goodwill. Allocations of the purchase price are based on preliminary estimates and assumptions at the date of acquisition and are subject to revision based on final information received, including appraisals and other analyses which support underlying estimates.
	The company performs a goodwill impairment test annually in the second quarter or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that an impairment loss may have been incurred. The impairment test allows an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than carrying value. If it is determined, that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than carrying value then the company will estimate and compare the fair value of its reporting units to their carrying value, including goodwill. Reporting units are determined based on one level below the operating segment level. As applicable, fair value is determined through the use of projected future cash flows, multiples of earnings and sales and other factors. Such analysis requires the use of certain market assumptions and discount factors, which are subjective in nature.
	See Note 9 for additional information relating to goodwill.
Other Intangible Assets	'
	Other Intangible Assets – Customer and license/use agreements, non-compete agreements and patents and other intangibles are amortized over the estimated period of benefit. The determination of the estimated period of benefit will be dependent upon the use and underlying characteristics of the intangible asset. Praxair evaluates the recoverability of its intangible assets subject to amortization when facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the asset may not be recoverable. If the carrying value is not recoverable, impairment is measured as the amount by which the carrying value exceeds its estimated fair value. Fair value is generally estimated based on either appraised value or other valuation techniques.
	See Note 10 for additional information relating to other intangible assets.
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes – Deferred income taxes are recorded for the temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using currently enacted tax rates. Valuation allowances are established against deferred tax assets whenever circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized in future periods.
	Under the guidance for accounting for uncertainty in income taxes, the company can recognize the benefit of an income tax position only if it is more likely than not (greater than 50%) that the tax position will be sustained upon tax examination, based solely on the technical merits of the tax position. Otherwise, no benefit can be recognized. The tax benefits recognized are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Additionally, the company accrues interest and related penalties, if applicable, on all tax exposures for which reserves have been established consistent with jurisdictional tax laws. Interest and penalties are classified as income tax expense in the financial statements.
	See Note 5 for additional information relating to income taxes.
Retirement Benefits	'
	Retirement Benefits – Most Praxair employees participate in a form of defined benefit or contribution retirement plan, and additionally certain employees are eligible to participate in various post-employment health care and life insurance benefit plans. The cost of contribution plans is recognized in the year earned while the cost of other plans is recognized over the employees’ expected service period to the company, all in accordance with the applicable accounting standards. The funded status of the plans is recorded as an asset or liability in the consolidated balance sheets. Funding of retirement benefits varies and is in accordance with local laws and practices.
	See Note 16 for additional information relating to retirement programs.
Share-based Compensation	'
	Share-based Compensation– The company has granted share-based awards which consist of stock options, restricted stock and performance-based stock. Share-based compensation expense is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the stated vesting period. For stock awards granted to full-retirement-eligible employees, compensation expense is recognized over the period from the grant date to the date retirement eligibility is achieved. For performance-based awards, compensation expense is recognized only if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved.
	See Note 15 for additional disclosures relating to share-based compensation.
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy	'
	Accounting Standards Implemented in 2013
	The following standards were all effective for Praxair in 2013 and their adoption did not have a significant impact on the condensed consolidated financial statements:
	•	Statement of Comprehensive Income - In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued updated disclosure requirements regarding the presentation of other comprehensive income. The adoption of this guidance did not have a significant impact on the consolidated financial statements. Refer to the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) following the Consolidated Statements of Income.
	•	Offsetting Assets and Liabilities - In December 2011, the FASB issued updated disclosure requirements related to a company's right or requirement to offset balance sheet items and the related arrangements associated with its financial instruments and derivative instruments. The new guidance requires the disclosure of the gross amounts subject to rights of setoff, amounts offset, and the related net exposure. The adoption of this guidance did not have a significant impact on the consolidated financial statements.
New Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted	'
	Accounting Standards to Be Implemented
	•	Accounting for Cumulative Translation Adjustment - In March 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance on the release of the cumulative translation adjustment into net income when a parent either sells a part or all of its investment in a foreign entity, or as a result of acquisitions achieved in stages. This guidance will be effective for Praxair beginning with the first quarter 2014. Praxair does not expect this requirement to have any impact on the consolidated financial statements.
	•	Presentation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits - In July 2013, the FASB issued updated guidance on the presentation of unrecognized tax benefits. The new guidance requires an entity to present certain unrecognized tax benefits, or a portion therefore, as a reduction to the related deferred tax asset, primarily for loss and tax credit carryforwards. This guidance will be effective for Praxair beginning with the first quarter 2014. Praxair does not expect this requirement to have a significant impact on the consolidated financial statements.
Reclassifications	'
	Reclassifications – Certain prior years’ amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation.

Venezuela_Currency_Devaluation1

Venezuela Currency Devaluation and Other Charges - Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Venezuela Currency Devaluation And Other Charges (Table) [Abstract]	'
2012 Schedule Of Cost Reduction By Segment	'
	The following is a summary of the charges by reportable segment:
	(Millions of dollars)		Severance				Costs Associated				Total Cost
			Costs				with Exit or				Reduction
							Disposal				Program
							Activities
	North America		$	1			$	—			$	1
	Europe		28				8				36
	South America		1				—				1
	Asia		2				—				2
	Surface Technologies		11				5				16
	Total		$	43			$	13			$	56
2012 Cost Reduction Program Activity Table	'
	The following table summarizes the activities related to the company's cost reduction program through December 31, 2013:
	(Millions of dollars)		Severance				Costs Associated				Total Cost
			Costs				with Exit or				Reduction
							Disposal				Program
							Activities
	Cost reduction program charges in the third quarter of 2012		$	43			$	13			$	56
	Less: Cash payments		$	(13	)		$	—			$	(13	)
	Less: Non-cash asset write-offs		$	—			$	(9	)		$	(9	)
	Balance, December 31, 2012		$	30			$	4			$	34
	Less: Cash payments		(16		)		(4		)		(20		)
	Foreign currency translation		1				—				1
	Balance, December 31, 2013		$	15			$	—			$	15
2011 Schedule Of Cost Reduction By Segments	'
	The following is a summary of the charges by reportable segment.
	(Millions of dollars)	Severance				Costs Associated				Total Cost
		Costs				with Exit or				Reduction Program
						Disposal Activities
	North America	$	1			$	—			$	1
	Europe	20				1				21
	South America	4				—				4
	Surface Technologies	8				6				14
	Total	$	33			$	7			$	40

Acquisitions_Business_Acquisit

Acquisitions Business Acquisitions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation	'
	The following table summarizes the fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition of NuCO2 as of the acquisition date. The allocation of the purchase price to identifiable assets and liabilities is final except for those related to income taxes. The potential adjustments are expected to be insignificant and will be recorded when the pre-acquisition tax returns are finalized in the 2014 first quarter.
	(Millions of dollars)	1-Mar-13
	Trade receivables, net	$	17
	Property, plant and equipment	199
	Intangible assets	374
	Deferred income taxes	(85		)
	Other assets and (liabilities)	(28		)
	Goodwill	618
	Purchase price	$	1,095

Leases_Tables

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Leases, Operating [Abstract]	'
Leases Table	'
	At December 31, 2013, minimum payments due under operating leases are as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2014	$	119
	2015	103
	2016	88
	2017	69
	2018	57
	Thereafter	51
		$	487

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure (Tables) [Abstract]	'
Schedule of U.S. and Foreign Pre-tax Income Table	'
	Pre-tax income applicable to U.S. and foreign operations is as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012				2011
	Year Ended December 31,
	United States	$	890			$	880			$	762
	Foreign	1,557				1,416				1,561
	Total income before income taxes	$	2,447			$	2,296			$	2,323
Schedule of the Provision for Income Taxes Table	'
	The following is an analysis of the provision for income taxes:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012				2011
	Year Ended December 31,
	Current tax expense
	U.S. federal	$	94			$	14			$	273
	State and local	27				20				30
	Foreign	427				294				341
		548				328				644
	Deferred tax expense
	U.S. federal	164				198				(47		)
	State and local	8				17				3
	Foreign	(71		)		43				41
		101				258				(3		)
	Total income taxes	$	649			$	586			$	641
Schedule of the Difference Between the Actual Income Tax Provision and the Amount Computed By Applying the US Statutory Income Tax Rate Table	'
	An analysis of the difference between the provision for income taxes and the amount computed by applying the U.S. statutory income tax rate to pre-tax income follows:
	(Dollar amounts in millions)	2013							2012						2011
	Year Ended December 31,
	U.S. statutory income tax rate	$	856			35	%		$	804			35	%	$	813		35	%
	State and local taxes – net of federal benefit	23				1	%		24				1	%	21			0.9	%
	U.S. tax credits and deductions (a)	(23		)		(1.0	)%		(22		)		(1.0	)%	(21		)	(0.9	)%
	Foreign tax differentials (b)	(150		)		(6.1	)%		(159		)		(6.9	)%	(164		)	(7.0	)%
	Income tax benefit from realignment of Italian legal structure (c)	(40		)		(1.6	)%		—				—	%	—			—	%
	Income tax benefit from liquidation of subsidiary (d)	—				—	%		(55		)		(2.4	)%	—			—	%
	Other – net	(17		)		(0.8	)%		(6		)		(0.2	)%	(8		)	(0.4	)%
	Provision for income taxes	$	649			26.5	%		$	586			25.5	%	$	641		27.6	%
	________________________
	(a)	U.S. tax credits and deductions relate to manufacturing deductions and to the research and experimentation tax credit.
	(b)	Primarily related to differences between the U.S. tax rate of 35% and the statutory tax rate in the countries where Praxair operates. Other tax rate changes were not significant.
	(c)	In December of 2013, Praxair's Italian legal structure was realigned. As a result of the new structure, an income tax benefit of $40 million ($24 million net of noncontrolling interests) was recorded. The benefit is recorded as $56 million in foreign current tax expense and $(96) million included in federal deferred tax expense.
	(d)	In 2011 Praxair requested a pre-filing agreement (“PFA”) with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) related to a loss on a liquidated subsidiary resulting from the divestiture of the U.S. Homecare Business. During the third quarter of 2012, the IRS approved the PFA resulting in a net income tax benefit of $55 million. The benefit is recorded in U.S. current federal tax expense.
Schedule of the Composition of the Net Deferred Tax Liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets Table	'
	Net deferred tax liabilities included in the consolidated balance sheet are comprised of the following:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012
	December 31,
	Deferred tax liabilities
	Fixed assets	$	1,374			$	1,153
	Exchange gains	61				92
	Goodwill	127				84
	Other intangible assets	112				—
	Other	133				121
		$	1,807			$	1,450
	Deferred tax assets
	Carryforwards	$	323			$	294
	Benefit plans and related (a)	285				433
	Inventory	20				20
	Accruals and other (b)	312				206
		$	940			$	953
	Less: Valuation allowances (c)	(85		)		(86		)
		$	855			$	867
	Net deferred tax liabilities	$	952			$	583
	Recorded in the consolidated balance sheets as (See Note 7):
	Prepaid and other current assets	$	181			$	185
	Other long-term assets	72				—
	Deferred credits	1,205				768
		$	952			$	583
	________________________
	(a)	Includes deferred taxes of $247 million and $427 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively, related to pension / OPEB funded status (Note 16).
	(b)	Includes $112 million and $77 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively, related to research and development costs and $70 million in 2013 related to goodwill.
	(c)	Summary of valuation allowances relating to deferred tax assets follows (millions of dollars):
			2013				2012				2011
		Balance, January 1,	$	(86	)		$	(107	)		$	(111	)
		Income tax (charge) benefit:
		U.S.	(1		)		17				6
		Other	2				(8		)		(4		)
		Translation adjustments	—				—				1
		Other, including write-offs	—				12				1
		Balance, December 31,	$	(85	)		$	(86	)		$	(107	)
Schedule of Valuation Allowances Relating To Deferred Tax Assets Table	'
	(c)	Summary of valuation allowances relating to deferred tax assets follows (millions of dollars):
			2013				2012				2011
		Balance, January 1,	$	(86	)		$	(107	)		$	(111	)
		Income tax (charge) benefit:
		U.S.	(1		)		17				6
		Other	2				(8		)		(4		)
		Translation adjustments	—				—				1
		Other, including write-offs	—				12				1
		Balance, December 31,	$	(85	)		$	(86	)		$	(107	)
Schedule of Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Table	'
	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012				2011
	Unrecognized income tax benefits, January 1	$	142			$	163			$	153
	Additions for tax positions of prior years	8				12				24
	Reductions for tax positions of prior years	(24		)		(17		)		(1		)
	Additions for current year tax positions	10				—				2
	Reductions for settlements with taxing authorities (a)	(2		)		(1		)		(2		)
	Reductions as a result of a lapse of an applicable statute of limitations	(1		)		(9		)		(1		)
	Foreign currency translation	(12		)		(6		)		(12		)
	Unrecognized income tax benefits, December 31	$	121			$	142			$	163
	________________________
	(a)	Settlements are uncertain tax positions that were effectively settled with the taxing authorities, including positions where the company has agreed to amend its tax returns to eliminate the uncertainty.
Schedule of Open Tax Years Subject to Examination by Major Jurisdiction Table	'
	As of December 31, 2013, the company remained subject to examination in the following major tax jurisdictions for the tax years as indicated below:
	Major tax jurisdictions	Open Years
	North America
	United States	2011 through 2013
	Canada	2006 through 2013
	Mexico	2007 through 2013
	Europe
	Germany	2008 through 2013
	Italy	2009 through 2013
	Spain	2006 through 2013
	South America
	Brazil	1998 through 2013
	Asia
	China	2008 through 2013
	India	2006 through 2013
	Korea	2007 through 2013
	Thailand	2007 through 2013

Earnings_Per_Share_Praxair_Inc1

Earnings Per Share - Praxair, Inc. Shareholders (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share Table - Praxair, Inc. Shareholders - Table	'
	Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing Net income – Praxair, Inc. for the period by the weighted average number of Praxair common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing Net income – Praxair, Inc. for the period by the weighted average number of Praxair common shares outstanding and dilutive common stock equivalents, as follows:
		2013		2012		2011
	Numerator (Millions of dollars)
	Net income – Praxair, Inc.	$	1,755	$	1,692	$	1,672
	Denominator (Thousands of shares)
	Weighted average shares outstanding	294,994		297,746		301,611
	Shares earned and issuable under compensation plans	529		570		626
	Weighted average shares used in basic earnings per share	295,523		298,316		302,237
	Effect of dilutive securities
	Stock options and awards	3,442		3,529		4,485
	Weighted average shares used in diluted earnings per share	298,965		301,845		306,722
	Basic Earnings Per Common Share	$	5.94	$	5.67	$	5.53
	Diluted Earnings Per Common Share	$	5.87	$	5.61	$	5.45

Supplemental_Information_Table

Supplemental Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Information (Tables) [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Selling General And Administrative Table	'
	(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012			2011
	Year Ended December 31,
	Selling, General and Administrative
	Selling	$	567		$	547		$	563
	General and administrative	782			723			676
		$	1,349		$	1,270		$	1,239
Schedule Of Depreciation And Amortization Table	'
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Depreciation and Amortization
	Depreciation	$	1,068		$	980		$	982
	Amortization of other intangibles (Note 10)	41			21			21
		$	1,109		$	1,001		$	1,003
Schedule Of Other Income (Expense) - Net Table	'
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Other Income (Expenses) – Net
	Currency related net gains (losses)	$	3		$	(9	)	$	7
	Partnership income	7			10			9
	Net legal settlements	10			24			—
	Severance expense	(14		)	(17		)	(17		)
	Business divestitures and asset gains (losses) – net	43			49			17
	Other – net	(17		)	(14		)	(9		)
		$	32		$	43		$	7
Schedule Of Interest Expense - Net Table	'
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Interest Expense – Net
	Interest incurred on debt	$	233		$	226		$	222
	Interest capitalized	(69		)	(70		)	(62		)
	Amortization of swap termination costs (Note 12)	(4		)	(15		)	(15		)
	Bond redemption (Note 11)	18			—			—
		$	178		$	141		$	145
Schedule Of Noncontrolling Interests Income [Table Text Block]	'
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
	Noncontrolling interests' operations	$	41		$	34		$	48
	Income tax benefit in Italy (Note 5)	16			—			—
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests' operations (Note 14)	24			18			2
		$	81		$	52		$	50
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block]	'										[1]
	(a)	Provisions to the allowance for doubtful accounts were $38 million, $29 million, and $57 million in 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. The remaining allowance activity in each period related primarily to write-offs of uncollectible amounts, net of recoveries and currency movements.
	(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012
	December 31,
	Accounts Receivable
	Trade	$	1,815		$	1,763
	Other	175			163
		1,990			1,926
	Less: allowance for doubtful accounts (a)	(98		)	(92		)
		$	1,892		$	1,834
Schedule Of Inventories Table	'
	(b)	Approximately 6% and 7% of total inventories were valued using the LIFO method at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. If inventories had been valued at current costs, they would have been approximately $9 million and $14 million higher than reported at December 31, 2013 and 2012.
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Inventories (b)
	Raw materials and supplies	$	167		$	164
	Work in process	58			56
	Finished goods	281			256
		$	506		$	476
Schedule Of Prepaid And Other Current Assets Table	'
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Prepaid and Other Current Assets
	Deferred income taxes (Note 5)	$	181		$	185
	Prepaid (c)	145			87
	Other	54			53
		$	380		$	325
	(c)	2013 includes estimated income tax payments of $75 million.
Schedule Of Other Long-term Assets Table	'
	(d)	Consists primarily of insurance contracts and other investments to be utilized for non-qualified pension and OPEB obligations.
	(e)	Financing receivables is not normal practice for the company. The balances at December 31, 2013 and 2012 are net of reserves of $51 million and $43 million, respectively. The balance in both periods relates primarily to government receivables in Brazil and other long-term notes receivable from customers, the majority of which are fully reserved. Collectibility is reviewed regularly and uncollectible amounts are written-off as appropriate. The fluctuation within this account was due primarily to foreign currency movements, additional receivables and reserves.
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Other Long-term Assets
	Pension assets (Note 16)	$	42		$	—
	Insurance contracts (d)	73			71
	Long-term receivables, net (e)	36			46
	Deposits	62			57
	Investments carried at cost	7			9
	Deferred charges	133			159
	Deferred income taxes (Note 5)	72			—
	Other	144			169
		$	569		$	511
Schedule Of Accrued Taxes Table	'
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Accrued Taxes
	Tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions	$	5		$	5
	Other accrued taxes	163			118
		$	168		$	123
Schedule Of Other Current Liabilities Table	'
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Other Current Liabilities
	Accrued expenses	$	291		$	257
	Payrolls	184			156
	Cost reduction program (Note 2)	15			34
	Pension and postretirement (Note 16)	33			46
	Interest payable	62			56
	Employee benefit accrual	20			20
	Severance	13			12
	Insurance reserves	11			6
	Other	161			164
		$	790		$	751
Schedule Of Other Long-term Liabilities Table	'
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Other Long-term Liabilities
	Pension and postretirement (Note 16)	$	498		$	909
	Tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions	55			63
	Interest and penalties for uncertain tax positions (Note 5)	12			17
	Insurance reserves	22			22
	Other	272			265
		$	859		$	1,276
Schedule Of Deferred Credits Table	'
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Deferred Credits
	Deferred income taxes (Note 5)	$	1,205		$	768
	Other	191			209
		$	1,396		$	977
Schedule Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Table	'
	(f)	North America consists of primarily of currency translation adjustments in Canada and Mexico while South America relates primarily to Brazil and Argentina.
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	Cumulative translation adjustment
	North America (f)	$	(315	)	$	(178	)
	South America (f)	(1,179		)	(837		)
	Europe	(63		)	(93		)
	Asia	21			23
	Surface Technologies	28			30
		(1,508		)	(1,055		)
	Derivatives – net of taxes	(4		)	(5		)
	Pension/OPEB funded status obligation (net of $247 million and $427 million taxes in 2013 and 2012, respectively) (Note 16)	(469		)	(792		)
		$	(1,981	)	$	(1,852	)
[1]	North America consists of primarily of currency translation adjustments in Canada and Mexico while South America relates primarily to Brazil and Argentina.

Property_Plant_Equipment_Net_T

Property, Plant & Equipment - Net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant & Equipment - Net	'
	Significant classes of property, plant and equipment are as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)	Depreciable Lives (Yrs)	2013			2012
	December 31,
	Production plants (primarily 15-year life) (a)	20-Oct	$	14,378		$	13,166
	Storage tanks	15-20	2,330			2,035
	Transportation equipment and other	15-Mar	1,866			1,759
	Cylinders (primarily 30-year life)	30-Oct	1,740			1,684
	Buildings	25-40	1,108			1,092
	Land and improvements (b)	0-20	493			490
	Construction in progress		2,116			2,453
			24,031			22,679
	Less: accumulated depreciation		(11,753		)	(11,226		)
			$	12,278		$	11,453
	(a) - Depreciable lives of production plants related to long-term customer supply contracts are consistent with the contract lives.
	(b) - Land is not depreciated.

Goodwill_Tables

Goodwill (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Goodwill [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Goodwill Table	'
	Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)	North			South			Europe		Asia			Surface		Total
		America			America								Technologies
	Balance, December 31, 2011	$	1,375		$	215		$	618	$	24		$	140	$	2,372
	Acquisitions (Note 3)	121			—			1		—			—		122
	Purchase adjustments & other	(9		)	—			—		—			—		(9		)
	Foreign currency translation	12			(20		)	26		1			3		22
	Balance, December 31, 2012	$	1,499		$	195		$	645	$	25		$	143	$	2,507
	Acquisitions (Note 3)	625			—			94		—			—		719
	Purchase adjustments & other	3			—			—		—			—		3
	Foreign currency translation	(10		)	(29		)	4		(1		)	1		(35		)
	Balance, December 31, 2013	$	2,117		$	166		$	743	$	24		$	144	$	3,194

Other_Intangible_Assets_Tables

Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Other Intangible Assets [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Other Intangible Assets Table	'
	The following is a summary of Praxair’s other intangible assets at December 31, 2013 and 2012:
	(Millions of dollars)	Customer &			Non-compete			Patents			Total
	For the year ended December 31, 2013	License/Use			Agreements			&
		Agreements						Other
	Cost:
	Balance, December 31, 2012	$	232		$	37		$	20		$	289
	Additions (primarily acquisitions)	433			4			30			467
	Foreign currency translation	3			—			—			3
	Other *	(7		)	(10		)	(7		)	(24		)
	Balance, December 31, 2013	661			31			43			735
	Less: accumulated amortization:
	Balance, December 31, 2012	(89		)	(20		)	(7		)	(116		)
	Amortization expense	(32		)	(6		)	(3		)	(41		)
	Foreign currency translation	(1		)	—			—			(1		)
	Other *	4			10			5			19
	Balance, December 31, 2013	(118		)	(16		)	(5		)	(139		)
	Net balance at December 31, 2013	$	543		$	15		$	38		$	596
	(Millions of dollars)	Customer &			Non-compete			Patents			Total
	For the year ended December 31, 2012	License/Use			Agreements			&
		Agreements						Other
	Cost:
	Balance, December 31, 2011	$	208		$	37		$	27		$	272
	Additions (primarily acquisitions)	41			5			—			46
	Foreign currency translation	4			—			1			5
	Other *	(21		)	(5		)	(8		)	(34		)
	Balance, December 31, 2012	232			37			20			289
	Less: accumulated amortization:
	Balance, December 31, 2011	(75		)	(20		)	(10		)	(105		)
	Amortization expense	(15		)	(5		)	(1		)	(21		)
	Foreign currency translation	(2		)	—			—			(2		)
	Other *	3			5			4			12
	Balance, December 31, 2012	(89		)	(20		)	(7		)	(116		)
	Net balance at December 31, 2012	$	143		$	17		$	13		$	173
	________________________
	*	Other primarily relates to the write-off of fully amortized assets and purchase accounting adjustments.
Schedule of Estimated Future Amortization Expense Table	'
	Total estimated annual amortization expense is as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2014	$	44
	2015	43
	2016	40
	2017	34
	2018	30
	Thereafter	405
		$	596

Debt_Tables

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt (Tables) [Abstract]	'
Long-term And Short-term Debt Table	'
	The following is a summary of Praxair’s outstanding debt at December 31, 2013 and 2012:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012
	Short-term
	Commercial paper and U.S. bank borrowings	$	712			$	563
	Other bank borrowings (primarily international)	70				75
	Total short-term debt	782				638
	Long-term
	U.S. borrowings
	3.95% Notes due 2013 (d, e)	—				350
	2.125% Notes due 2013 (a, b, d, e)	—				504
	4.375% Notes due 2014 (a, d)	300				299
	5.25% Notes due 2014 (f)	—				400
	4.625% Notes due 2015	500				500
	3.25% Notes due 2015 (a, b)	418				431
	0.75% Notes due 2016 (c)	400				—
	5.375% Notes due 2016	400				400
	5.20% Notes due 2017	325				325
	1.05% Notes due 2017	400				400
	1.20% Notes due 2018 (c)	500				—
	1.25% Notes due 2018 (b, c)	478				—
	4.50% Notes due 2019 (a)	598				598
	1.90% Notes due 2019 (c)	500				—
	4.05% Notes due 2021 (a)	498				498
	3.00% Notes due 2021 (a)	497				496
	2.45% Notes due 2022 (a)	598				598
	2.20% Notes due 2022 (a)	499				499
	2.70% Notes due 2023 (a, c)	498				—
	3.55% Notes due 2042 (a, c)	466				298
	Other	5				5
	International bank borrowings (d)	140				113
	Obligations under capital lease	9				10
		8,029				6,724
	Less: current portion of long-term debt	(3		)		(39		)
	Total long-term debt	8,026				6,685
	Total debt	$	8,811			$	7,362
	________________________
	(a)	Amounts are net of unamortized discounts.
	(b)	December 31, 2013 and 2012 include a $22 million and $36 million fair value increase, respectively, related to fair value hedge accounting. See Note 12 for additional information.
	(c)	During 2013, Praxair issued the following notes totaling $2.55 billion: $500 million of 1.90% notes due 2019, $400 million of 0.75% notes due 2016, $500 million of 2.70% notes due 2023, $500 million of 1.20% notes due 2018, $175 million of 3.55% notes due 2042 and $475 million of 1.25% notes due 2018. The proceeds of these issuances were used for general corporate purposes.
	(d)	Classified as long-term because of the Company’s intent to refinance this debt on a long-term basis and the availability of such financing under the company's $2 billion senior unsecured credit facility with a syndicate of banks which expires in 2016.
	(e)	In June 2013, Praxair repaid $350 million of 3.95% notes and $500 million of 2.125% notes that became due.
	(f)	In December of 2013, Praxair redeemed $400 million of 5.25% notes due November 2014 for $418 million resulting in an $18 million charge ($12 million after-tax) recorded within interest expense - net for the year ended December 31, 2013.
Credit Facilities Table	'
	At December 31, 2013, the company has the following major credit facility available for future borrowing:
	Millions of dollars	Total				Borrowings			Available for		Expires
		Facility				Outstanding			Borrowing
	Senior Unsecured	$	2,000			$	—		$	2,000	Jul-16
Expected Maturities On Long-term Debt Table	'
	Expected maturities on long-term debt are as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2014	$	3
	2015	924
	2016	1,167			*
	2017	727
	2018	1,047
	Thereafter	4,161
		$	8,029
	________________________
	*	$361 million of debt due in 2014 has been reflected in 2016 maturities due to the company’s intent to refinance this debt on a long-term basis and the ability to do so under the $2 billion senior unsecured credit facility with a syndicate of banks which expires in 2016.

Financial_Instruments_Tables

Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Financial Instruments (Tables) [Abstract]	'
Derivative Instruments Fair Value and Notional Amounts Table	'
	The following table is a summary of the notional amount and fair value of derivatives outstanding at December 31, 2013 and 2012 for consolidated subsidiaries:
										Fair Value
	(Millions of dollars)	Notional Amounts								Assets								Liabilities
	December 31,	2013				2012				2013				2012				2013				2012
	Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:
	Currency contracts:
	Balance sheet items (a)	$	2,197			$	2,515			$	4			$	6			$	14			$	8
	Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments:
	Currency contracts:
	Forecasted purchases (a)	$	5			$	10			$	—			$	—			$	—			$	—
	Interest rate contracts:
	Interest rate swaps (b)	875				400				22				32				—				—
	Total Hedges	$	880			$	410			$	22			$	32			$	—			$	—
	Total Derivatives	$	3,077			$	2,925			$	26			$	38			$	14			$	8
	________________________
	(a)	Assets are recorded in prepaid and other current assets, and liabilities are recorded in other current liabilities.
	(b)	Assets are recorded in other long term assets.
Schedule of Terminated Interest Rate Swaps	'
	The following table summarizes information related to terminated interest rate swap contracts:
								Amount of Gain												Unrecognized Gain (a)
								Recognized in												December 31,
								Earnings (a)
	(Millions of dollars)	Year		Original				2013				2012				2011				2013				2012
		Terminated		Gain
	Interest Rate Swaps
	Underlying debt instrument (b):
	$500 million 2.125% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2013	2011		$	18			$	4			$	9			$	5			$	—			$	4
	$400 million 1.75% fixed-rate notes that matured in 2012	2010		13				—				5				6				—				—
	$500 million 6.375% fixed-rate notes that matured in 2012	2002		47				—				1				4				—				—
	Total			$	78			$	4			$	15			$	15			$	—			$	4
	________________________
	(a)	The unrecognized gain for terminated interest rate swaps is shown as an increase to long-term debt and has been recognized on a straight line basis to interest expense—net over the term of the underlying debt agreements. Upon settlement of the underlying interest rate contract, the cash received was reflected within the Noncontrolling interest transactions and other in the financing section of the consolidated statement of cash flows.
	(b)	The notional amounts of the interest rate contracts were equal to the underlying debt instruments.
Schedule Of Treasury Rate Lock Contracts Table Text Block	'
	The following table summarizes the unrecognized gains (losses) related to terminated treasury rate lock contracts:
								Unrecognized Gain / (Loss) (a)
	(Millions of dollars)	Year		Original				31-Dec-13				31-Dec-12
		Terminated		Gain / (Loss)
	Treasury Rate Locks
	Underlying debt instrument:
	$500 million 2.20% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2022 (b)	2012		$	(2	)		$	(2	)		$	(2	)
	$500 million 3.00% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2021 (b)	2011		(11		)		(9		)		(10		)
	$600 million 4.50% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2019 (b)	2009		16				10				11
	$500 million 4.625% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2015 (b)	2008		(7		)		(1		)		(2		)
	Total – pre-tax							$	(2	)		$	(3	)
	Less: income taxes							1				1
	After- tax amounts							$	(1	)		$	(2	)
	________________________
	(a)	The unrecognized gains / (losses) for the treasury rate locks are shown in accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") and will be recognized on a straight line basis to interest expense – net over the term of the underlying debt agreements. Upon settlement of the treasury rate lock contracts, the cash received or paid was reflected within Noncontrolling interest transactions and other in the financing section of the consolidated statement of cash flows. Refer to the table below summarizing the impact of the company’s consolidated statements of income and AOCI for current period gain (loss) recognition.
	(b)	The notional amount of the treasury rate lock contracts were equal to the underlying debt instrument with the exception of the treasury rate lock contract entered into to hedge the $600 million 4.50% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2019. The notional amount of this contract was $500 million.
Schedule of Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Table	'
	The following table summarizes the earnings impacts of derivative that are not designated as hedging instruments:
	(Millions of dollars)	Amount of Pre-Tax Gain (Loss)
		Recognized in Earnings (a)
	December 31,	2013				2012				2011
	Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
	Currency contracts:
	Balance sheet items:
	Debt-related	$	(46	)		$	33			$	(25	)
	Other balance sheet items	(9		)		(1		)		(3		)
	Anticipated net income	—				(4		)		(1		)
	Total	$	(55	)		$	28			$	(29	)
	(a)	The gains (losses) on balance sheet items are offset by gains (losses) recorded on the underlying hedged assets and liabilities. The gains (losses) for the derivatives and the underlying hedged assets and liabilities related to debt items are recorded in the consolidated statements of income as interest expense-net. Other balance sheet items and anticipated net income gains (losses) are recorded in the consolidated statements of income as other income (expenses)-net.
Schedule of Derivative Instruments Designated As Hedging Instruments Table	'
	(b)	The gains (losses) on forecasted purchase and treasury rate locks are recorded as a component of AOCI within derivative instruments in the consolidated statements of equity. There was no ineffectiveness for these instruments during 2013 or 2012. The gains (losses) on forecasted purchases are reclassified to the depreciation and amortization expense on a straight-line basis consistent with the useful life of the underlying asset. The gains (losses) for interest rate contracts are reclassified to earnings as interest expense –net on a straight-line basis over the remaining maturity of the underlying debt. Net losses of less than $1 million are expected to be reclassified to earning during 2014.
	The following table summarizes the impacts of derivatives that impact AOCI:
	(Millions of dollars)	Amount of Gain (Loss)
		Recognized in AOCI (b)
	December 31,	2013				2012				2011
	Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
	Currency contracts:
	Forecasted purchases (b)	$	1			$	1			$	(4	)
	Interest rate contracts:
	Treasury rate locks (b)	—				(2		)		(11		)
	Total – Pre tax	$	1			$	(1	)		$	(15	)
	Less: income taxes	—				1				6
	After tax amounts	$	1			$	—			$	(9	)
	________________________

Fair_Value_Disclosures_Tables

Fair Value Disclosures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Measurements [Abstract]	'
Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis Table	'
	The following table summarizes assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2013 and 2012:
		Fair Value Measurements Using
	(Millions of dollars)	Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
		2013		2012		2013		2012		2013		2012
	Assets
	Derivative assets	$	—	$	—	$	26	$	38	$	—	$	—
	Liabilities
	Derivative liabilities	$	—	$	—	$	14	$	8	$	—	$	—

Equity_and_Redeemable_Noncontr1

Equity and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Equity and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Table Abstract	'
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	'
	The following is a summary of redeemable noncontrolling interests for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012			2011
	Beginning Balance	$	252		$	220		$	—
	Reclassification from noncontrolling interest as of October 1, 2011	—			—			65
	Yara Praxair transaction	—			—			119
	Net income	24			18			2
	Distributions to noncontrolling interest	(11		)	(9		)	—
	Redemption value adjustment/accretion	53			13			35
	Foreign currency translation and other	(11		)	10			(1		)
	Ending Balance	$	307		$	252		$	220

ShareBased_Compensation_Tables

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions	'
	The following weighted-average assumptions were used for grants in 2013, 2012 and 2011:
	Year Ended December 31,	2013		2012		2011
	Dividend yield	2.2	%	2	%	2	%
	Volatility	21.7	%	22.5	%	22.3	%
	Risk-free interest rate	0.76	%	0.86	%	2.2	%
	Expected term years	5		5		5
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity	'
	The following table summarizes option activity under the plans for 2013 (averages are calculated on a weighted basis; life in years; intrinsic value expressed in millions):
	Activity	Number  of		Average			Average		Aggregate
		Options		Exercise			Remaining		Intrinsic
		(000’s)		Price			Life		Value
	Outstanding at January 1, 2012	12,281		$	74.05
	Granted	1,308		110.58
	Exercised	(2,357	)	58.46
	Cancelled or expired	(71	)	106.15
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	11,161		$	81.42		5.5		$	543
	Exercisable at December 31, 2013	8,324		$	72.4		4.5		$	480
Performance Based and Restricted Stock Activity	'
	The following table summarizes non-vested performance-based and restricted stock award activity as of December 31, 2013 and changes during the period then ended (shares based on target amounts, averages are calculated on a weighted basis):
		Performance-Based					Restricted Stock
	Performance-Based and Restricted Stock Activity	Number of		Average			Number of			Average
		Shares		Grant Date			Shares			Grant Date
		(000’s)		Fair Value			(000’s)			Fair Value
	Non-vested at January 1, 2013	840		$	88.83		368			$	89.89
	Granted (a)	416		103.46			119			105.79
	Vested	(371	)	70.95			(136	)		77.08
	Cancelled	(18	)	101.52			(14	)		101.15
	Non-vested at December 31, 2013	867		$	99.55		337			$	100.41
	(a)	Performance-based stock unit grants during 2013 include 98 thousand shares relating to the actual payout of the 2010 PSU grants in 2013.

Retirement_Programs_Tables

Retirement Programs (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Pension And Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables) [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Pension and OPEB Net Periodic Benefit Costs Table	'
	The components of net pension and OPEB costs for 2013, 2012 and 2011 are shown below:
	(Millions of dollars)	Pensions												OPEB
	Year Ended December 31,	2013				2012				2011				2013				2012			2011
	Service cost	$	56			$	49			$	44			$	5			$	4		$	4
	Interest cost	112				119				120				11				12			14
	Expected return on plan assets	(149		)		(153		)		(147		)		—				—			—
	Net amortization and deferral	91				68				43				(5		)		(7		)	(6		)
	Net periodic benefit cost before pension settlement charges	$	110			$	83			$	60			$	11			$	9		$	12
	Pension settlement charges *	9				10				6				—				—			—
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	119			$	93			$	66			$	11			$	9		$	12
	* 2012 and 2013 includes a $9 million charges in the third quarter related to the retirement of senior managers in the United States (see Note 2)
Schedule of Pension and OPEB Funded Status Table	'
	The changes in benefit obligation and plan assets for Praxair’s pension and OPEB programs, including reconciliation of the funded status of the plans to amounts recorded in the consolidated balance sheet, as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 are shown below:
	(Millions of dollars)	Pensions
	Year Ended December 31,	2013								2012								OPEB
		U.S.				International				U.S.				International				2013			2012
	Change in Benefit Obligation ("PBO")
	Benefit obligation January 1	$	1,926			$	727			$	1,721			$	624			$	251		$	226
	Service cost	38				18				34				15				5			4
	Interest cost	74				38				79				40				11			12
	Participant contributions	—				—				—				—				11			9
	Actuarial loss (gain)	(148		)		(43		)		182				89				(39		)	31
	Benefits paid	(99		)		(38		)		(90		)		(43		)		(23		)	(29		)
	Foreign currency translation	—				(41		)		—				2				(8		)	(2		)
	Benefit obligation, December 31	$	1,791			$	661			$	1,926			$	727			$	208		$	251
	Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO")	$	1,712			$	629			$	1,831			$	678
	Change in Plan Assets
	Fair value of plan assets, January 1	$	1,391			$	558			$	1,138			$	504			$	—		$	—
	Actual return on plan assets	271				43				159				70				—			—
	Company contributions	35				17				165				19				—			—
	Benefits paid from plan assets	(77		)		(33		)		(71		)		(39		)		—			—
	Foreign currency translation	—				(34		)		—				4				—			—
	Fair value of plan assets, December 31	$	1,620			$	551			$	1,391			$	558			$	—		$	—
	Funded Status, End of Year	$	(171	)		$	(110	)		$	(535	)		$	(169	)		$	(208	)	$	(251	)
	Recorded in the Balance Sheet
	Other long-term assets	$	—			$	42			$	—			$	—			$	—		$	—
	Other current liabilities	(10		)		(6		)		(21		)		(6		)		(17		)	(19		)
	Other long-term liabilities	(161		)		(146		)		(514		)		(163		)		(191		)	(232		)
	Net amount recognized, December 31	$	(171	)		$	(110	)		$	(535	)		$	(169	)		$	(208	)	$	(251	)
	Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) consist of:
	Net actuarial loss (gain)	$	563			$	145			$	956			$	217			$	(7	)	$	34
	Prior service cost (credit)	1				18				(1		)		23				(4		)	(10		)
	Deferred tax benefit (Note 5)	(215		)		(38		)		(364		)		(56		)		6			(7		)
	Amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Note 7)	$	349			$	125			$	591			$	184			$	(5	)	$	17
Schedule of Pension and OPEB Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in AOCI Table	'
	The changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income in 2013 and 2012 are as follows:
		Pensions								OPEB
	(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012				2013				2012
	Current year net actuarial loss (gain)*	$	(356	)		$	195			$	(39	)		$	31
	Amortization of net actuarial loss	(90		)		(67		)		(1		)		—
	Amortization of prior service costs	(1		)		(1		)		6				7
	Pension settlements	(9		)		(10		)		—				—
	Foreign currency translation and other	(12		)		3				(1		)		(1		)
	Total recognized in other comprehensive income	$	(468	)		$	120			$	(35	)		$	37
	________________________
	*	The pension net actuarial gain in 2013 relates primarily to the increase in discount rates, when compared to 2012. The pension net actuarial loss in 2012 relates primarily to lower discount rates, when compared to 2011. The OPEB net actuarial gain in 2013 relates primarily to higher discount rates, and the 2012 net actuarial loss relates primarily to lower discount rates.
Schedule of Pension and OPEB Amounts in AOCI to be Recognized in 2012 Table	'
	The amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost during 2014 are as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)	Pension				OPEB
	Net actuarial loss (gain)	$	59			$	—
	Prior service cost (credit)	1				(6		)
		$	60			$	(6	)
Schedule of Pension Plans Where the Accumulated Benefit Obligation Exceeds the Fair Value of Plan Assets Table	'
	The following table provides information for pension plans where the accumulated benefit obligation exceeds the fair value of the plan assets:
	(Millions of dollars)	Pensions
	Year Ended December 31,	2013								2012
		U.S.*				International				U.S.				International
	Projected benefit obligation ("PBO")	$	244			$	360			$	1,926			$	402
	Accumulated benefit obligation ("ABO")	$	241			$	352			$	1,831			$	391
	Fair value of plan assets	$	127			$	207			$	1,391			$	246
Schedule of Pension and OPEB Plans Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations and the Net Benefit Cost Table	'
	The assumptions used to determine the benefit obligations are as of the respective balance sheet date and the assumptions used to determine the net benefit cost are at the previous year-end, as shown below:
		Pensions
		U.S.						International						OPEB
		2013			2012			2013			2012			2013			2012
	Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31,
	Discount rate	4.8	%		3.9	%		6.3	%		5.8	%		5.87	%		5	%
	Rate of increase in compensation levels	3.25	%		3.25	%		4	%		4	%		N/A			N/A
	Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for years ended December 31,
	Discount rate	3.9	%		4.7	%		5.8	%		7	%		5	%		5.7	%
	Rate of increase in compensation levels	3.25	%		3.25	%		4	%		3.9	%		N/A			N/A
	Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets *	8	%		8.25	%		7.5	%		8.7	%		N/A			N/A
	________________________
	*	The expected long term rate of return on the U.S. and international plan assets is estimated based on the plans' investment strategy and asset allocation, historical capital market performance and, to a lesser extent, historical plan performance. For the U.S. plans, the expected rate of return of 8.00% was derived based on the target asset allocation of 60%-80% equity securities (approximately 9.5% expected return), and 20%-40% fixed income securities (approximately 5.5% expected return). For the international plans, the expected rate of return was derived based on the weighted average target asset allocation of 30%-50% equity securities (approximately 10% expected return), 40%-60% fixed income securities (approximately 7.5% expected return), and 0%-10% alternative investments (approximately 7.5% expected return). For the U.S. plan assets, the actual annualized total returns for the most recent 10-year and 20-year periods ended December 31, 2013 were approximately 6.7% and 7.8%, respectively. For the international plan assets, the actual annualized total returns for the same two periods were approximately 7.6% and 8.9%, respectively. Changes to plan asset allocations and investment strategy over this time period limit the value of historical plan performance as factor in estimating the expected long term rate of return. For 2014, the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets will be 8.00% for the U.S. plans. Expected weighted average returns for international plans will vary.
Schedule of OPEB Plans Assumed Healthcare Cost Trend Rates Table	'
		OPEB
	Assumed healthcare cost trend rates	2013			2012
	Healthcare cost trend assumed	8	%		8.5	%
	Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)	5	%		5	%
	Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2020			2020
Schedule OPEB Plans Impact One Percentage Point Change in Assumed Healthcare Cost Trend Rates Table	'
	These healthcare-cost trend rate assumptions have an impact on the amounts reported. However, cost caps limit the impact on the net OPEB benefit cost in the U.S. To illustrate the effect, a one-percentage point change in assumed healthcare cost trend rates would have the following effects:
		One-Percentage Point
	(Millions of dollars)	Increase				Decrease
	Effect on the total of service and interest cost components of net OPEB benefit cost	$	1			$	(1	)
	Effect on OPEB benefit obligation	$	6			$	(5	)
Schedule of Pension Plans Targeted Asset Allocation Range and Weighted-Average Asset Allocations Table	'
	Praxair’s U.S. and international pension plans’ weighted-average asset allocations at December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the target asset allocation range for 2013, by major asset category are as follows:
		U.S.									International
	Asset Category	Target			2013			2012			Target		2013			2012
	Equity securities	60%-80%			70	%		64	%		30%-50%		48	%		37	%
	Fixed income securities	20%-40%			30	%		36	%		40%-60%		43	%		54	%
	Other	—			—			—			0%-10%		9	%		9	%
Schedule of Pension Plans Assets Measured at Fair Value by Asset Category Table	'
	The following table summarizes pension assets measured at fair value by asset category at December 31, 2013 and 2012. During the years presented, there has been no transfer of assets between Levels 1, 2 & 3 (see Note 13 for definition of the levels):
		Fair Value Measurements Using
		Level 1								Level 2								Level 3 *						Total
	(Millions of dollars)	2013				2012				2013				2012				2013			2012			2013		2012
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	2			$	8			$	—			$	—			$	—		$	—		$	2	$	8
	Equity securities:
	U.S. equities	285				372				—				—				—			—			285		372
	International equities	82				72				—				—				—			—			82		72
	Mutual funds	393				316				—				—				—			—			393		316
	Pooled funds	—				—				630				333				—			—			630		333
	Fixed income securities:
	U.S. government bonds	39				48				—				—				—			—			39		48
	International government bonds	128				184				—				—				—			—			128		184
	Mutual funds	308				312				—				—				—			—			308		312
	Corporate bonds	—				—				176				169				—			—			176		169
	Pooled funds	—				—				80				87				—			—			80		87
	Other:
	Insurance contracts	—				—				—				—				48			48			48		48
	Fair value of plan assets, December 31,	$	1,237			$	1,312			$	886			$	589			$	48		$	48		$	2,171	$	1,949
	________________________
	*	The following table summarizes changes in fair value of the pension plan assets classified as level 3 for the periods ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
	(Millions of dollars)	Insurance
		Contracts
	Balance, December 31, 2011	$	49
	Gain or losses for the period	1
	Acquisitions	—
	Net settlements	(2		)
	Balance, December 31, 2012	48
	Gain or losses for the period	—
	Net settlements	—
	Balance, December 31, 2013	$	48
Schedule of Pension Plans Changes in Fair Value of Assets Classified as Level 3 Table	'
	*	The following table summarizes changes in fair value of the pension plan assets classified as level 3 for the periods ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:
	(Millions of dollars)	Insurance
		Contracts
	Balance, December 31, 2011	$	49
	Gain or losses for the period	1
	Acquisitions	—
	Net settlements	(2		)
	Balance, December 31, 2012	48
	Gain or losses for the period	—
	Net settlements	—
	Balance, December 31, 2013	$	48
Schedule of Pension and OPEB Estimated Future Benefit Payments, Net of Participant Contributions Table	'
	The following table presents estimated future benefit payments, net of participants contributions:
	(Millions of dollars)	Pensions
	Year Ended December 31,	U.S.				International				OPEB
	2014	$	94			$	37			$	18
	2015	101				36				19
	2016	104				37				18
	2017	110				38				18
	2018	115				39				17
	2019 – 2023	630				206				75

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Unconditional Purchase Obligations (Excluding Capital Stock Redemptions) [Abstract]	'
Material Commitments and Contractual Obligations	'
	The following table sets forth Praxair’s material commitments and contractual obligations as of December 31, 2013, excluding leases, tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions, long-term debt, other post retirement and pension obligations which are summarized elsewhere in the financial statements (see Notes 4, 7, 11, and 16):
	(Millions of dollars)	Unconditional		Construction		Guarantees
	Expiring through December 31,	Purchase		Commitments		and Other
		Obligations
	2014	$	529	$	1,071	$	45
	2015	444		515		9
	2016	421		117		—
	2017	409		—		—
	2018	404		—		—
	Thereafter	3,542		—		18
		$	5,749	$	1,703	$	72

Segments_Tables

Segments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting (Tables) [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, Sales Table	'
	(a)	Sales reflect external sales only. Intersegment Sales, primarily from North America to other segments, were not material.
	The table below presents information about reportable segments for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.
	(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012			2011
	Sales (a)
	North America	$	6,164		$	5,598		$	5,490
	Europe	1,542			1,474			1,458
	South America	2,042			2,082			2,308
	Asia	1,525			1,414			1,348
	Surface Technologies	652			656			648
		$	11,925		$	11,224		$	11,252
Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information, Operating Profit	'
		2013			2012			2011
	Operating Profit
	North America	$	1,538		$	1,465		$	1,331
	Europe	270			256			272
	South America	467			429			530
	Asia	271			246			234
	Surface Technologies	111			106			102
	Segment operating profit	2,657			2,502			2,469
	Venezuela currency devaluation and other charges (Note 2)	(32		)	(65		)	(1		)
	Total operating profit	$	2,625		$	2,437		$	2,468
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, Total Assets Table	'
	(b)	Includes equity investments as of December 31, as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012			2011
	North America*	$	128		$	135		$	49
	Europe *	218			199			183
	Asia *	356			320			291
		$	702		$	654		$	523
	*	The 2013 increase primarily relates to current year equity investment earnings. The 2012 increase in North America relates to the formation of a packaged gas joint venture with Nexair LLC in the Southeastern United States.
		2013			2012			2011
	Total Assets (b)
	North America	$	10,133		$	8,491		$	7,402
	Europe	3,408			2,957			2,728
	South America	2,934			3,205			3,194
	Asia	3,098			2,757			2,366
	Surface Technologies	682			680			666
		$	20,255		$	18,090		$	16,356
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, Depreciation and Amortization Table	'
	(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012			2011
	Depreciation and Amortization
	North America	$	567		$	498		$	495
	Europe	169			149			141
	South America	181			184			197
	Asia	150			127			126
	Surface Technologies	42			43			44
		$	1,109		$	1,001		$	1,003
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions Table	'
		2013			2012			2011
	Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions
	North America	$	2,106		$	1,303		$	880
	Europe	451			322			339
	South America	284			351			396
	Asia	459			431			431
	Surface Technologies	43			53			45
		$	3,343		$	2,460		$	2,091
Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services	'
		2013			2012			2011
	Sales by Product Group (c)
	Atmospheric gases and related	$	8,451		$	8,104		$	8,005
	Process gases and other	2,822			2,464			2,599
	Surface technologies	652			656			648
		$	11,925		$	11,224		$	11,252
	(c)	Prior years' amounts have been reclassified to conform to current year's presentation.
Schedule of Segment Information, Sales by Major Country Table	'
		2013			2012			2011
	Sales by Major Country
	United States	$	4,764		$	4,305		$	4,206
	Brazil	1,603			1,668			1,931
	Other – foreign	5,558			5,251			5,115
		$	11,925		$	11,224		$	11,252
Schedule of Segment Information, Long-lived Assets by Major Country Table	'
		2013			2012			2011
	Long-lived Assets by Major Country (d)
	United States	$	4,723		$	4,255		$	3,646
	Brazil	1,376			1,535			1,584
	Other – foreign	6,179			5,663			4,901
		$	12,278		$	11,453		$	10,131
	(d)	Long-lived assets include property, plant and equipment – net.
Schedule of Segment Information, Equity Investments Table	'
	(b)	Includes equity investments as of December 31, as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)	2013			2012			2011
	North America*	$	128		$	135		$	49
	Europe *	218			199			183
	Asia *	356			320			291
		$	702		$	654		$	523
	*	The 2013 increase primarily relates to current year equity investment earnings. The 2012 increase in North America relates to the formation of a packaged gas joint venture with Nexair LLC in the Southeastern United States.

Quarterly_Data_Tables

Quarterly Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Quarterly Data (Unaudited) Table	'
	(Dollar amounts in millions, except per share data)
	2013	1Q (a)			2Q			3Q (a)		4Q (a)		YEAR (a)
	Sales	$	2,888		$	3,014		$	3,013	$	3,010	$	11,925
	Cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization	$	1,638		$	1,710		$	1,697	$	1,699	$	6,744
	Depreciation and amortization	$	266		$	275		$	281	$	287	$	1,109
	Operating profit	$	600		$	665		$	670	$	690	2,625
	Net income – Praxair, Inc.	$	391		$	445		$	445	$	474	$	1,755
	Basic Per Share Data
	Net income	$	1.32		$	1.5		$	1.51	$	1.61	$	5.94
	Weighted average shares (000’s)	296,604			295,668			295,124		294,697		295,523
	Diluted Per Share Data
	Net income	$	1.3		$	1.49		$	1.49	$	1.59	$	5.87
	Weighted average shares (000’s)	299,700			298,654			298,357		298,225		298,965
	2012	1Q			2Q			3Q (a)		4Q		YEAR (a)
	Sales	$	2,840		$	2,811		$	2,774	$	2,799	$	11,224
	Cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization	$	1,616		$	1,602		$	1,595	$	1,583	$	6,396
	Depreciation and amortization	$	252		$	247		$	248	$	254	$	1,001
	Operating profit	$	627		$	636		$	558	$	616	$	2,437
	Net income – Praxair, Inc.	$	419		$	429		$	430	$	414	$	1,692
	Basic Per Share Data
	Net income	$	1.4		$	1.43		$	1.44	$	1.4	$	5.67
	Weighted average shares (000’s)	299,077			298,885			298,416		296,887		298,316
	Diluted Per Share Data
	Net income	$	1.38		$	1.42		$	1.43	$	1.38	$	5.61
	Weighted average shares (000’s)	302,876			302,492			301,731		300,224		301,845
	________________________
	(a)	2013 and 2012 include the impact of the following benefits/(charges) (see Notes 2, 5 & 11):
	(Millions of dollars)	Operating			Net
		Profit/			Income/
		(Loss)			(Loss)
	Venezuela currency devaluation – Q1	$	(23	)	$	(23	)
	Pension settlement charge – Q3	(9		)	(6		)
	Income tax benefit - Q4	—			24
	Bond redemption - Q4	—			(12		)
	Year 2013	$	(32	)	$	(17	)
	Cost reduction program – Q3	$	(56	)	$	(38	)
	Pension settlement charge – Q3	(9		)	(6		)
	Income tax benefit – Q3	—			55
	Year 2012	$	(65	)	$	11

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policy	'
Minimum ownership percentage generally utilized for an equity investment	20.00%
Maximum ownership percentage generally utilized for an equity investment	50.00%
Maximum ownership percentage generally utilized for a cost investment	20.00%
Minimum likelihood that a position will be sustained upon tax examination needed to recognize a benefit	50.00%
Tax benefits recognized are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement	50.00%
Other Sources of Revenue	'
Accounting Policy	'
Percentage of Consolidated Sales	11.00%
Product Revenues	'
Accounting Policy	'
Percentage of Consolidated Sales	89.00%
Minimum	'
Accounting Policy	'
Useful life	'3 years
Maximum	'
Accounting Policy	'
Useful life	'40 years

Venezuela_Currency_Devaluation2

Venezuela Currency Devaluation and Other Charges - Net (2013, 2012 and 2011 Items) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, 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

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Feb. 13, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Cost Reduction Program [Member]

Cost Reduction Program [Member]

Cost Reduction Program [Member]

Yara-Praxair Acquistion Member

Total Impact Of Items [Member]

Total Impact Of Items [Member]

Total Impact Of Items [Member]

Pension Settlement Charge [Member]

Pension Settlement Charge [Member]

Pension Settlement Charge [Member]

Pension Settlement Charge [Member]

Venezuela Currency Devaluation [Member]

Venezuela Currency Devaluation [Member]

Venezuela Currency Devaluation [Member]

Venezuela Currency Devaluation [Member]

Additional Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

$690

[1]

$670

[1]

$665

$600

[1]

$616

$558

[1]

$636

$627

$2,625

[1]

$2,437

[1]

$2,468

($56)

($56)

($40)

$39

($32)

($65)

($1)

($9)

($9)

($9)

($9)

($23)

($23)

'

'

Interest expense – net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

178

141

145

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Income Tax Expense (Benefit)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

649

586

641

'

-16

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Noncontrolling Interests

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

81

52

50

'

-2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

474

[1]

445

[1]

445

391

[1]

414

430

[1]

429

419

1,755

[1]

1,692

[1]

1,672

-38

-38

-31

37

-17

11

'

-6

-6

-6

-6

-23

-23

'

'

Venezuela currency devaluation and other charges – net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$32

$65

$1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Venezuela Exchange Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

6.3

4.3

Venezuela Implied Devaluation On Remaining Sectors Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

32.00%

'

Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

50.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Ownership Percentage of Yara-Praxair After Purchase

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

66.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

[1]

2013 and 2012 include the impact of the following benefits/(charges) (see Notes 2, 5 & 11):

Venezuela_Currency_Devaluation3

Venezuela Currency Devaluation and Other Charges - Net (Restructuring and Related Information) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, 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

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Feb. 13, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

employee

employee

Severance Costs

Severance Costs

Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities

Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities

Total Cost Reduction Program

Total Cost Reduction Program

North America Segment Member

North America Segment Member

North America Segment Member

North America Segment Member

North America Segment Member

North America Segment Member

North America Segment Member

South America Segment Member

South America Segment Member

South America Segment Member

South America Segment Member

South America Segment Member

South America Segment Member

South America Segment Member

Europe Segment Member

Europe Segment Member

Europe Segment Member

Europe Segment Member

Europe Segment Member

Europe Segment Member

Europe Segment Member

Europe Segment Member

Europe Segment Member

Asia Segment Member

Asia Segment Member

Asia Segment Member

Asia Segment Member

Asia Segment Member

Surface Technologies Segment [Member]

Surface Technologies Segment [Member]

Surface Technologies Segment [Member]

Surface Technologies Segment [Member]

Surface Technologies Segment [Member]

Surface Technologies Segment [Member]

Surface Technologies Segment [Member]

Surface Technologies Segment [Member]

Surface Technologies Segment [Member]

Total Segments

Total Segments

Total Segments

Total Segments

Total Segments

Total Segments

Total Segments

Total Segments

Total Segments

Venezuela Currency Devaluation [Member]

Venezuela Currency Devaluation [Member]

Venezuela Currency Devaluation [Member]

Venezuela Currency Devaluation [Member]

Cost Reduction Program [Member]

Cost Reduction Program [Member]

Cost Reduction Program [Member]

Income tax benefit [Member]

Income tax benefit [Member]

Total Impact Of Items [Member]

Total Impact Of Items [Member]

Total Impact Of Items [Member]

Severance Costs

Severance Costs

Total Cost Reduction Program

Total Cost Reduction Program

Severance Costs

Severance Costs

Total Cost Reduction Program

Total Cost Reduction Program

Severance Costs

Severance Costs

Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities

Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities

Total Cost Reduction Program

Total Cost Reduction Program

Severance Costs

Total Cost Reduction Program

Severance Costs

Severance Costs

Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities

Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities

Total Cost Reduction Program

Total Cost Reduction Program

Severance Costs

Severance Costs

Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities

Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities

Total Cost Reduction Program

Total Cost Reduction Program

Restructuring And Related Cost [Line Items]

'

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Venezuela Exchange Rate

'

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6.3

4.3

'

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'

'

'

'

'

'

Net income – Praxair, Inc.

$474

[1]

$445

[1]

$445

$391

[1]

$414

$430

[1]

$429

$419

$1,755

[1]

$1,692

[1]

$1,672

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

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'

'

'

($23)

($23)

'

'

($38)

($38)

($31)

$24

$55

($17)

$11

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

690

[1]

670

[1]

665

600

[1]

616

558

[1]

636

627

2,625

[1]

2,437

[1]

2,468

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,538

1,465

1,331

'

'

'

'

467

429

530

'

'

'

'

270

256

272

'

'

'

'

'

'

271

246

234

'

'

111

106

102

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,657

2,502

2,469

'

'

'

'

'

'

-23

-23

'

'

-56

-56

-40

'

'

-32

-65

-1

Severance Costs

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

14

17

17

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1

1

'

'

'

'

'

1

4

'

'

'

'

'

28

20

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2

'

'

'

'

11

8

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

43

33

'

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'

'

Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities

'

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8

1

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5

6

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'

13

7

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Total Cost Reduction Program

'

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1

1

'

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'

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1

4

'

'

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'

'

36

21

'

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'

'

2

'

'

'

'

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'

'

16

14

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

56

40

'

'

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'

'

'

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'

Restructuring Reserve [Abstract]

'

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Cost reduction program - Period Start

'

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43

30

13

4

56

34

'

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Less: Cash payments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-13

-16

'

-4

-13

-20

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Less: Non-cash asset write-offs

'

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-9

'

-9

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Restructuring Reserve, Translation Adjustment

'

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1

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1

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Restructuring and Related Cost, Number of Positions Eliminated

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

410

290

'

'

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Cost reduction program - Period End

'

'

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'

'

30

15

4

'

34

15

'

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'

Income Tax Expense (Benefit)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

649

586

641

'

'

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'

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-16

'

'

'

'

'

'

Noncontrolling Interests

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$81

$52

$50

'

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($2)

'

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'

[1]

2013 and 2012 include the impact of the following benefits/(charges) (see Notes 2, 5 & 11):

Acquisitions_Details

Acquisitions (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Mar. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Mar. 01, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

Sep. 30, 2011

Dec. 31, 2011

NuCO2 [Member]

NuCO2 [Member]

NuCO2 [Member]

NuCO2 [Member]

All acquisitions other than NuCO2 [Member]

All Acquisitions During the Period [Member]

All Acquisitions During the Period [Member]

Yara-Praxair Acquistion Member

Yara-Praxair Acquistion Member

Yara-Praxair Acquistion Member

employee

location

Business Acquisition Line Items

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage Interest of NuCO2 to be Acquired

'

'

'

'

'

'

100.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Total Intangibles

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$194

'

'

'

'

'

Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

93

'

'

'

'

'

Number of Businesses Acquired

'

17

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number Of NuCO2 Customer Locations

'

'

'

'

'

'

162,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Approximate number of employees in NuCO2

'

'

'

'

'

'

900

'

'

'

'

'

'

Purchase Price of Acquisitions

1,323

280

294

1,095

'

'

'

228

280

'

'

'

'

Business Acquisition, Revenue Reported by Acquired Entity for Last Annual Period

'

'

'

'

'

230

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales Since Acquisition Date, First Year of Consolidation

'

'

'

'

208

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

50

Trade receivables, net

'

'

'

'

'

'

17

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant and equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

199

'

'

'

'

'

'

Intangible assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

374

'

'

'

'

'

'

Deferred income taxes

'

'

'

'

'

'

-85

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other assets and (liabilities)

'

'

'

'

'

'

-28

'

'

'

'

'

'

Goodwill

3,194

2,507

2,372

'

'

'

618

101

122

396

'

'

'

Purchase price

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,095

'

'

'

'

'

'

Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life

'

'

'

'25 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Ownership Percentage of Yara-Praxair After Purchase

'

'

66.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

66.00%

50.00%

'

Gain on Yara Acquisition

'

'

$39

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Acquisitions_Equity_Method_Inv

Acquisitions Equity Method Investments (Details)	Dec. 31, 2011
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	50.00%
ROC Group United Arab Emirates Operations Equity Investment [Member]	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	49.00%

Leases_Details

Leases (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]	'	'	'
2014	$119	'	'
2015	103	'	'
2016	88	'	'
2017	69	'	'
2018	57	'	'
Thereafter	51	'	'
Total Minimum Payments Under Operating Leases	487	'	'
Present Value of Future Lease Payments Under Operating Leases	411	'	'
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net [Abstract]	'	'	'
Lease And Rental Expense	$140	$120	$115

Income_Taxes_Pretax_Income_and

Income Taxes (Pre-tax Income and Income Tax Provision) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]	'	'	'
Current tax expense - U.S. federal	$94	$14	$273
Current tax expense - State and local	27	20	30
Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit)	427	294	341
Total current tax expense	548	328	644
Deferred tax expense (benefit) - U.S. federal	164	198	-47
Deferred tax expense (benefit) - State and local	8	17	3
Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	-71	43	41
Total deferred income taxes	101	258	-3
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	649	586	641
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]	'	'	'
Pre-tax income - United States	890	880	762
Pre-tax income - Foreign	1,557	1,416	1,561
Income Before Income Taxes and Equity Investments	$2,447	$2,296	$2,323

Income_Taxes_Tax_Rate_Analysis

Income Taxes (Tax Rate Analysis) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Unusual or Infrequent Item [Line Items]	'		'		'
U.S. statutory income tax rate	$856		$804		$813
U.S. statutory income tax rate percentage	35.00%		35.00%		35.00%
State and local taxes - net of federal benefit	23		24		21
State and local taxes - net of federal benefit percentage	1.00%		1.00%		0.90%
U.S. tax credits and deductions	-23	[1]	-22	[1]	-21	[1]
U.S. tax credits and deductions percentage	-1.00%	[1]	-1.00%	[1]	-0.90%	[1]
Foreign tax rate differentials	-150	[2]	-159	[2]	-164	[2]
Foreign tax rate differentials percentage	-6.10%	[2]	-6.90%	[2]	-7.00%	[2]
Income Tax Benefit from Realignment of Italian legal structure	-40	[3]	'		'
Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit)	427		294		341
Income Tax Benefit from Realignment of Italian legal structure, Percent	-1.60%	[3]	'		'
Income Tax Benefit from Liquidated Subsidiary	'		-55	[4]	'
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Disposition of Business	'		-2.40%	[4]	'
Other - net	-17		-6		-8
Other - net percentage	-0.80%		-0.20%		-0.40%
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	649		586		641
Provision for income taxes percentage	26.50%		25.50%		27.60%
Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	-71		43		41
Italian Legal Realignment [Member]	'		'		'
Unusual or Infrequent Item [Line Items]	'		'		'
Income Tax Benefit from Realignment of Italian legal structure	-40	[3]	'		'
Income Tax Reconciliation Realignment Noncontrolling Interests	24		'		'
Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit)	56		'		'
Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	($96)		'		'
[1]	U.S. tax credits and deductions relate to manufacturing deductions and to the research and experimentation tax credit.
[2]	Primarily related to differences between the U.S. tax rate of 35% and the statutory tax rate in the countries where Praxair operates. Other tax rate changes were not significant.
[3]	In December of 2013, Praxair's Italian legal structure was realigned. As a result of the new structure, an income tax benefit of $40 million ($24 million net of noncontrolling interests) was recorded. The benefit is recorded as $56 million in foreign current tax expense and $(96) million included in federal deferred tax expense.
[4]	In 2011 Praxair requested a pre-filing agreement (“PFA”) with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) related to a loss on a liquidated subsidiary resulting from the divestiture of the U.S. Homecare Business. During the third quarter of 2012, the IRS approved the PFA resulting in a net income tax benefit of $55 million. The benefit is recorded in U.S. current federal tax expense.

Income_Taxes_Net_Deferred_Tax_

Income Taxes (Net Deferred Tax Liabilities and Valuation Allowances) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract]	'		'		'	'
Fixed assets	$1,374		$1,153		'	'
Exchange gains	61		92		'	'
Goodwill	127		84		'	'
Intangible Assets	112		0		'	'
Other	133		121		'	'
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross	1,807		1,450		'	'
Carryforwards	323		294		'	'
Benefit plans and related	285	[1]	433	[1]	'	'
Inventory	20		20		'	'
Accruals and other	312	[2]	206	[2]	'	'
Total gross deferred tax assets	940		953		'	'
Valuation allowances	-85	[3]	-86	[3]	-107	-111
Total net deferred tax assets	855		867		'	'
Total deferred tax liabilities	952		583		'	'
Prepaid and Other Current Assets, Deferred Taxes	181		185		'	'
Other Long-term Assets, Deferred Taxes	72		0		'	'
Deferred Credits, Deferred Taxes	1,205		768		'	'
Deferred tax asset - Pension,OPEB	247		427		'	'
Deferred Tax Assets, in Process Research and Development	112		77		'	'
Deferred Tax Assets, Goodwill and Intangible Assets	70		'		'	'
Valuation Allowance [Abstract]	'		'		'	'
Charges to expense (income), U.S.	-1		17		6	'
Charges to expense (income), Other	2		-8		-4	'
Valuation Allowances And Reserves Translation Adjustments	'		'		1	'
Other, including write-offs	'		$12		$1	'
[1]	Includes deferred taxes of $247 million and $427 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively, related to pension / OPEB funded status (Note 16).
[2]	Includes $112 million and $77 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively, related to research and development costs and $70 million in 2013 related to goodwill.
[3]	Summary of valuation allowances relating to deferred tax assets follows (millions of dollars): 2013 2012 2011 Balance, January 1,$(86) $(107) $(111) Income tax (charge) benefit: U.S.(1) 17 6 Other2 (8) (4) Translation adjustments— — 1 Other, including write-offs— 12 1 Balance, December 31,$(85) $(86) $(107)

Income_Taxes_Valuation_Allowan

Income Taxes (Valuation Allowances Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Other Tax Carryforward [Line Items]	'	'
Operating Loss Carryforwards	$148,000,000	'
Carryforwards	323,000,000	294,000,000
Valuation Allowance [Abstract]	'	'
Minimum likelihood that a position will be sustained upon tax examination needed to recognize a benefit	50.00%	'
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	9,300,000,000	'
Brazil Member	'	'
Other Tax Carryforward [Line Items]	'	'
Brazil net operating loss carryforward	76,000,000	'
United States Member	'	'
Other Tax Carryforward [Line Items]	'	'
Operating Loss Carryforwards, U.S.	72,000,000	'
US foreign tax credit carryforwards	71,000,000	'
US tax credit valuation allowance	54,000,000	'
Foreign Country Member	'	'
Other Tax Carryforward [Line Items]	'	'
Carryforwards	31,000,000	'
Total Company Less US Federal and Brazil NOL And US Foreign Tax Credits Member	'	'
Other Tax Carryforward [Line Items]	'	'
US tax credit valuation allowance	31,000,000	'
Carryforwards	104,000,000	'
U.S. State Member	'	'
Other Tax Carryforward [Line Items]	'	'
Carryforwards	$73,000,000	'

Income_Taxes_Unrecognized_Tax_

Income Taxes (Unrecognized Tax Positions) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Extraordinary and Unusual Items [Abstract]	'		'		'
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued	$12		$17		'
Expenses (Income) for interest and penalties on tax reserves	-11		1		4
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Unrecognized income tax benefits, January 1	142		163		153
Additions for tax positions of prior years	8		12		24
Reductions for tax positions of prior years	-24		-17		-1
Additions for current year tax positions	10		'		2
Reductions for settlements with taxing authorities	-2	[1]	-1	[1]	-2	[1]
Reductions as a result of a lapse of an applicable statute of limitations	-1		-9		-1
Foreign currency translation	-12		-6		-12
Unrecognized income tax benefits, December 31	$121		$142		$163
[1]	(a)Settlements are uncertain tax positions that were effectively settled with the taxing authorities, including positions where the company has agreed to amend its tax returns to eliminate the uncertainty.

Income_Taxes_Open_Years_by_Maj

Income Taxes (Open Years by Major Tax Jurisdictions) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Domestic Country Member | Minimum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2011
Domestic Country Member | Maximum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2013
Foreign Country Canada Member | Minimum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2006
Foreign Country Canada Member | Maximum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2013
Foreign Country Mexico Member | Minimum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2007
Foreign Country Mexico Member | Maximum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2013
Foreign Country Germany Member | Minimum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2008
Foreign Country Germany Member | Maximum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2013
Foreign Country Italy Member | Minimum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2009
Foreign Country Italy Member | Maximum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2013
Foreign Country Spain Member | Minimum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2006
Foreign Country Spain Member | Maximum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2013
Foreign Country Brazil Member | Minimum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'1998
Foreign Country Brazil Member | Maximum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2013
Foreign Country China Member | Minimum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2008
Foreign Country China Member | Maximum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2013
Foreign Country India Member | Minimum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2006
Foreign Country India Member | Maximum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2013
Foreign Country Korea Member | Minimum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2007
Foreign Country Korea Member | Maximum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2013
Foreign Country Thailand Member | Minimum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2007
Foreign Country Thailand Member | Maximum	'
Income Tax Examination Line Items	'
Open Years	'2013

Earnings_Per_Share_Praxair_Inc2

Earnings Per Share - Praxair, Inc. Shareholders (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, except 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

Denominator (Details) [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Weighted average shares outstanding

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

294,994,000

297,746,000

301,611,000

Shares earned and issuable under compensation plans

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

529,000

570,000

626,000

Weighted average shares used in basic earnings per share

294,697,000

295,124,000

295,668,000

296,604,000

296,887,000

298,416,000

298,885,000

299,077,000

295,523,000

298,316,000

302,237,000

Stock options and awards

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,442,000

3,529,000

4,485,000

Weighted average shares used in diluted earnings per share

298,225,000

298,357,000

298,654,000

299,700,000

300,224,000

301,731,000

302,492,000

302,876,000

298,965,000

301,845,000

306,722,000

Basic Earnings Per Common Share

$1.61

$1.51

$1.50

$1.32

$1.40

$1.44

$1.43

$1.40

$5.94

$5.67

$5.53

Diluted Earnings Per Common Share

$1.59

$1.49

$1.49

$1.30

$1.38

$1.43

$1.42

$1.38

$5.87

$5.61

$5.45

Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Antidilutive excluded from the computation of Earnings Per Share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,589,235

'

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net income – Praxair, Inc.

$474

[1]

$445

[1]

$445

$391

[1]

$414

$430

[1]

$429

$419

$1,755

[1]

$1,692

[1]

$1,672

[1]

2013 and 2012 include the impact of the following benefits/(charges) (see Notes 2, 5 & 11):

Supplemental_Information_Detai

Supplemental Information (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, 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

Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Trade

$1,815

'

'

'

$1,763

'

'

'

$1,815

$1,763

'

Other Accounts Receivable

175

'

'

'

163

'

'

'

175

163

'

Accounts Receivable Gross Current Total

1,990

'

'

'

1,926

'

'

'

1,990

1,926

'

Less: allowance for doubtful accounts (a)

-98

[1]

'

'

'

-92

[1]

'

'

'

-98

[1]

-92

[1]

'

Accounts receivable – net

1,892

'

'

'

1,834

'

'

'

1,892

1,834

'

Provisions to the allowance for doubtful accounts

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

38

29

57

Deferred Revenue and Credits, Noncurrent [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Deferred Income Tax Liabilities (Note 5)

1,205

'

'

'

768

'

'

'

1,205

768

'

Other

191

'

'

'

209

'

'

'

191

209

'

Deferred credits

1,396

'

'

'

977

'

'

'

1,396

977

'

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Depreciation

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,068

980

982

Amortization of other intangibles (Note 10)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

41

21

21

Depreciation and amortization

287

281

275

266

254

248

247

252

1,109

1,001

1,003

Interest and Debt Expense [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest incurred on debt

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

233

226

222

Interest Capitalized

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-69

-70

-62

Amortization of swap termination costs (Note 12)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-4

-15

-15

Bond redemption (Note 11)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

18

'

'

Interest expense – net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

178

141

145

Inventory, Finished Goods and Work in Process, Gross [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Raw materials and supplies

167

[2]

'

'

'

164

[2]

'

'

'

167

[2]

164

[2]

'

Work in process

58

[2]

'

'

'

56

[2]

'

'

'

58

[2]

56

[2]

'

Finished goods

281

[2]

'

'

'

256

[2]

'

'

'

281

[2]

256

[2]

'

Inventories

506

[2]

'

'

'

476

[2]

'

'

'

506

[2]

476

[2]

'

Percentage of LIFO Inventory

6.00%

'

'

'

7.00%

'

'

'

6.00%

7.00%

'

Inventory LIFO Reserve

9

'

'

'

14

'

'

'

9

14

'

Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

NoncontrollingInterestsIncomeFromOperations

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

41

34

48

Income tax benefit attributable to noncontrolling interest

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

16

'

'

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

24

18

2

Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

81

52

50

Other Current Liabilities [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accrued expenses

291

'

'

'

257

'

'

'

291

257

'

Payrolls

184

'

'

'

156

'

'

'

184

156

'

Cost reduction program and other charges (Note 2)

15

'

'

'

34

'

'

'

15

34

'

Pension and postretirement (Note 16)

33

'

'

'

46

'

'

'

33

46

'

Interest payable

62

'

'

'

56

'

'

'

62

56

'

Employee benefit accrual

20

'

'

'

20

'

'

'

20

20

'

Severance

13

'

'

'

12

'

'

'

13

12

'

Insurance reserves

11

'

'

'

6

'

'

'

11

6

'

Other

161

'

'

'

164

'

'

'

161

164

'

Other current liabilities

790

'

'

'

751

'

'

'

790

751

'

Other Income Expense Net [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Currency related net gains (losses)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3

-9

7

Partnership income

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7

10

9

Net legal settlements

10

'

'

'

24

'

'

'

10

24

'

Severance expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-14

-17

-17

Business divestitures and asset gains (losses) – net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

43

49

17

Other - net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-17

-14

-9

Other income (expenses) – net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

32

43

7

Other Long Term Liabilities [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Pension and postretirement (Note 16)

498

'

'

'

909

'

'

'

498

909

'

Tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions

55

'

'

'

63

'

'

'

55

63

'

Interest and penalties for uncertain tax positions (Note 5)

12

'

'

'

17

'

'

'

12

17

'

Insurance reserves

22

'

'

'

22

'

'

'

22

22

'

Other Long Term Liabilites Other

272

'

'

'

265

'

'

'

272

265

'

Other long-term liabilities

859

'

'

'

1,276

'

'

'

859

1,276

'

Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Deferred income taxes (Note 5)

181

'

'

'

185

'

'

'

181

185

'

Prepaid

145

[3]

'

'

'

87

'

'

'

145

[3]

87

'

Other

54

'

'

'

53

'

'

'

54

53

'

Prepaid and other current assets

380

'

'

'

325

'

'

'

380

325

'

Estimated Income Tax Payments

75

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

75

'

'

Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Pension assets (Note 16)

42

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

42

'

'

Insurance contracts (c)

73

[4]

'

'

'

71

[4]

'

'

'

73

[4]

71

[4]

'

Long-term receivables, net (d)

36

[5]

'

'

'

46

[5]

'

'

'

36

[5]

46

[5]

'

Deposits

62

'

'

'

57

'

'

'

62

57

'

Investments carried at cost

7

'

'

'

9

'

'

'

7

9

'

Deferred charges

133

'

'

'

159

'

'

'

133

159

'

Deferred income taxes (Note 5)

72

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

72

0

'

Other

144

'

'

'

169

'

'

'

144

169

'

Other long-term assets

569

'

'

'

511

'

'

'

569

511

'

Long-term receivables reserve

51

'

'

'

43

'

'

'

51

43

'

Selling, General and Administrative Expense [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Selling

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

567

547

563

General and administrative

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

782

723

676

Selling, general and administrative

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,349

1,270

1,239

Taxes Payable, Current [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Tax liabilities for uncertain tax positions

5

'

'

'

5

'

'

'

5

5

'

Other accrued taxes

163

'

'

'

118

'

'

'

163

118

'

Accrued taxes

$168

'

'

'

$123

'

'

'

$168

$123

'

[1]

Provisions to the allowance for doubtful accounts were $38 million, $29 million, and $57 million in 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. The remaining allowance activity in each period related primarily to write-offs of uncollectible amounts, net of recoveries and currency movements.

[2]

Approximately 6% and 7% of total inventories were valued using the LIFO method at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. If inventories had been valued at current costs, they would have been approximately $9 million and $14 million higher than reported at December 31, 2013 and 2012.

[3]

2013 includes estimated income tax payments of $75 million.

[4]

Consists primarily of insurance contracts and other investments to be utilized for non-qualified pension and OPEB obligations.

[5]

Financing receivables is not normal practice for the company. The balances at December 31, 2013 and 2012 are net of reserves of $51 million and $43 million, respectively. The balance in both periods relates primarily to government receivables in Brazil and other long-term notes receivable from customers, the majority of which are fully reserved. Collectibility is reviewed regularly and uncollectible amounts are written-off as appropriate. The fluctuation within this account was due primarily to foreign currency movements, additional receivables and reserves.

Supplemental_Information_Accum

Supplemental Information (Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]	'		'
Derivatives - net of taxes	($4)		($5)
Pension and OPEB funded status obligation	-469		-792
Funded Status Obligations, Taxes	-247		-427
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-1,981		-1,852
North America Segment Member	'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'
Cumulative Translation Adjustment	-315	[1]	-178	[1]
South America Segment Member	'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'
Cumulative Translation Adjustment	-1,179	[1]	-837	[1]
Europe Segment Member	'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'
Cumulative Translation Adjustment	-63		-93
Asia Segment Member	'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'
Cumulative Translation Adjustment	21		23
Surface Technologies Segment [Member]	'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'
Cumulative Translation Adjustment	28		30
Total Segments	'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'
Cumulative Translation Adjustment	($1,508)		($1,055)
[1]	North America consists of primarily of currency translation adjustments in Canada and Mexico while South America relates primarily to Brazil and Argentina.

Property_Plant_Equipment_Net_D

Property, Plant & Equipment - Net (Details) (USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Production plants (primarily 15-year life) (a)

Production plants (primarily 15-year life) (a)

Storage tanks

Storage tanks

Transportation equipment and other

Transportation equipment and other

Cylinders (primarily 30-year life)

Cylinders (primarily 30-year life)

Buildings

Buildings

Land and improvements (b)

Land and improvements (b)

Construction in progress

Construction in progress

Minimum

Minimum

Minimum

Minimum

Minimum

Minimum

Minimum

Maximum

Maximum

Maximum

Maximum

Maximum

Maximum

Maximum

Production plants (primarily 15-year life) (a)

Storage tanks

Transportation equipment and other

Cylinders (primarily 30-year life)

Buildings

Land Improvements [Member]

Production plants (primarily 15-year life) (a)

Storage tanks

Transportation equipment and other

Cylinders (primarily 30-year life)

Buildings

Land Improvements [Member]

Property, Plant and Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Gross Balance

$24,031

$22,679

'

$14,378

[1]

$13,166

[1]

$2,330

$2,035

$1,866

$1,759

$1,740

$1,684

$1,108

$1,092

$493

[2]

$490

[2]

$2,116

$2,453

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Less: accumulated depreciation

-11,753

-11,226

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant and equipment – net

$12,278

[3]

$11,453

[3]

$10,131

[3]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Useful life

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'10 years

[1]

'15 years

'3 years

'10 years

'25 years

'0 years

[2]

'40 years

'20 years

[1]

'20 years

'15 years

'30 years

'40 years

'20 years

[2]

[1]

(a) - Depreciable lives of production plants related to long-term customer supply contracts are consistent with the contract lives.

[2]

(b) - Land is not depreciated.

[3]

Long-lived assets include property, plant and equipment – net.

Goodwill_Details

Goodwill (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	$2,507	$2,372
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	719	122
Purchase adjustments & other	3	-9
Foreign currency translation	-35	22
Goodwill, Ending Balance	3,194	2,507
North America Segment Member	'	'
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	1,499	1,375
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	625	121
Purchase adjustments & other	3	-9
Foreign currency translation	-10	12
Goodwill, Ending Balance	2,117	1,499
South America Segment Member	'	'
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	195	215
Foreign currency translation	-29	-20
Goodwill, Ending Balance	166	195
Europe Segment Member	'	'
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	645	618
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	94	1
Foreign currency translation	4	26
Goodwill, Ending Balance	743	645
Asia Segment Member	'	'
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	25	24
Foreign currency translation	-1	1
Goodwill, Ending Balance	24	25
Surface Technologies Segment [Member]	'	'
Goodwill [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	143	140
Foreign currency translation	1	3
Goodwill, Ending Balance	$144	$143

Other_Intangible_Assets_Detail

Other Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Beginning Period Cost	$289		$272		'
Additions (primarily acquisitions)	467		46		'
Foreign currency translation	3		5		'
Other	-24	[1]	-34	[1]	'
Ending Period Cost	735		289		272
Beginning Accumulated Amortization	-116		-105		'
Amortization expense	-41		-21		-21
Foreign currency translation	-1		-2		'
Other	19	[1]	12	[1]	'
Ending Accumulated Amortization	-139		-116		-105
Net balance finite lived intangibles	596		173		'
Additional Finite Lived Intangible Asset Information (Details) [Abstract]	'		'		'
Remaining weighted-average amortization period for intangible asset	'19 years		'		'
2014	44		'		'
2015	43		'		'
2016	40		'		'
2017	34		'		'
2018	30		'		'
Thereafter	405		'		'
Customer & License/Use Agreements	'		'		'
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Beginning Period Cost	232		208		'
Additions (primarily acquisitions)	433		41		'
Foreign currency translation	3		4		'
Other	-7	[1]	-21	[1]	'
Ending Period Cost	661		232		'
Beginning Accumulated Amortization	-89		-75		'
Amortization expense	-32		-15		'
Foreign currency translation	-1		-2		'
Other	4	[1]	3	[1]	'
Ending Accumulated Amortization	-118		-89		'
Net balance finite lived intangibles	543		143		'
Non-compete Agreements	'		'		'
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Beginning Period Cost	37		37		'
Additions (primarily acquisitions)	4		5		'
Other	-10	[1]	-5	[1]	'
Ending Period Cost	31		37		'
Beginning Accumulated Amortization	-20		-20		'
Amortization expense	-6		-5		'
Other	10	[1]	5	[1]	'
Ending Accumulated Amortization	-16		-20		'
Net balance finite lived intangibles	15		17		'
Patents & Other	'		'		'
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Beginning Period Cost	20		27		'
Additions (primarily acquisitions)	30		'		'
Foreign currency translation	'		1		'
Other	-7	[1]	-8	[1]	'
Ending Period Cost	43		20		'
Beginning Accumulated Amortization	-7		-10		'
Amortization expense	-3		-1		'
Other	5	[1]	4	[1]	'
Ending Accumulated Amortization	-5		-7		'
Net balance finite lived intangibles	$38		$13		'
[1]	Other primarily relates to the write-off of fully amortized assets and purchase accounting adjustments.

Debt_ST_and_LT_Debt_Details

Debt (ST and LT Debt) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Fair value increase	$22,000,000		$36,000,000		'
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	'		'		'
Repayments of Long-term Debt	1,347,000,000		1,522,000,000		580,000,000
Loss on Bond Redemption	18,000,000		'		'
Long-term Debt, by Current and Noncurrent [Abstract]	'		'		'
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion	8,029,000,000		6,724,000,000		'
Current portion of long-term debt	-3,000,000		-39,000,000		'
Obligations under capital lease	9,000,000		10,000,000		'
Long-term debt	8,026,000,000		6,685,000,000		'
Debt And Capital Lease Obligations	8,811,000,000		7,362,000,000		'
Commercial Paper	712,000,000		563,000,000		'
Other bank borrowings (Primarily International)	70,000,000		75,000,000		'
Total short-term debt	782,000,000		638,000,000		'
US Long-term 3.95% Notes due 2013 (d)	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Repayments of Long-term Debt	350,000,000		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	'		350,000,000	[1],[2]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	3.95%		3.95%		'
US Long-term 2.125% Notes due 2013 (a.b.d)	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Repayments of Long-term Debt	500,000,000		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	'		504,000,000	[1],[2],[3],[4]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	2.13%		2.13%		'
US Long-term 4.375% Notes due 2014 (a)	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	300,000,000	[2],[3]	299,000,000	[2],[3]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.38%		4.38%		'
US Long-term 5.25% Notes due 2014	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Repayments of Long-term Debt	418,000,000		'		'
Principal Amount of Bond Redemption	400,000,000		'		'
Loss on Bond Redemption	-18,000,000		'		'
Bond Redemption, Loss, Net of Tax	-12,000,000		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	'		400,000,000	[5]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	5.25%		5.25%		'
US Long-term 4.625% Notes due 2015	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	500,000,000		500,000,000		'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.63%		4.63%		'
US Long-term 3.25% Notes due 2015 (a,b)	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	418,000,000	[3],[4]	431,000,000	[3],[4]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	3.25%		3.25%		'
US Long-term 0.75% Notes due 2016	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	400,000,000	[6]	'		'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	0.75%		'		'
US Long-term 5.375% Notes due 2016	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	400,000,000		400,000,000		'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	5.38%		5.38%		'
US Long-term 5.20% Notes due 2017	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	325,000,000		325,000,000		'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	5.20%		5.20%		'
US Long-term1.05% Notes due 2017 (a,c)	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	400,000,000		400,000,000		'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	1.05%		1.05%		'
US Long-term 1.20% Notes Due 2018 [Member]	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	500,000,000	[6]	'		'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	1.20%		'		'
Debt Instrument, Face Value	500,000,000		'		'
US Long-term 1.25% Notes due 2018 [Member]	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	478,000,000	[4],[6]	'	[4],[6]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	1.25%		'		'
Debt Instrument, Face Value	475,000,000		'		'
US Long-term 4.50% Notes due 2019 (a)	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	598,000,000	[3]	598,000,000	[3]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.50%		4.50%		'
US Long-term 1.90% Notes due 2019 (a,c)	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	500,000,000	[6]	'		'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	1.90%		'		'
Debt Instrument, Face Value	500,000,000		'		'
US Long-term 0.75% Notes due 2016 [Member]	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	0.75%		'		'
Debt Instrument, Face Value	400,000,000		'		'
US Long-term 4.05% Notes due 2021(a)	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	498,000,000	[3]	498,000,000	[3]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.05%		4.05%		'
US Long-term 3.00% Notes due 2021 (a)	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	497,000,000	[3]	496,000,000	[3]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	3.00%		3.00%		'
US Long-term 2.45% Notes due 2022 (a,c)	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	598,000,000	[3]	598,000,000	[3]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	2.45%		2.45%		'
US Long-term 2.20% Notes due 2022 (a,c)	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	499,000,000	[3]	499,000,000	[3]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	2.20%		2.20%		'
US Long-term 2.70% Notes due 2023	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	498,000,000	[3],[6]	'		'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	2.70%		'		'
Debt Instrument, Face Value	500,000,000		'		'
US Long-term 3.55% Notes due 2042 (a,c)	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Senior Notes - Carrying Amount	466,000,000	[3],[6]	298,000,000	[3],[6]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	3.55%		3.55%		'
Debt Instrument, Face Value	175,000,000		'		'
US Long-term other	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Other Debt - Carrying Amount	5,000,000		5,000,000		'
Other International Bank Borrowings	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Other Debt - Carrying Amount	140,000,000	[2]	113,000,000		'
Total Debt Issued During Fiscal Year	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Debt Instrument, Face Value	2,550,000,000		'		'
Line of Credit [Member]	'		'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'		'
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$2,000,000,000		'		'
[1]	In June 2013, Praxair repaid $350 million of 3.95% notes and $500 million of 2.125% notes that became due.
[2]	Classified as long-term because of the Company’s intent to refinance this debt on a long-term basis and the availability of such financing under the company's $2 billion senior unsecured credit facility with a syndicate of banks which expires in 2016.
[3]	Amounts are net of unamortized discounts.
[4]	December 31, 2013 and 2012 include a $22 million and $36 million fair value increase, respectively, related to fair value hedge accounting. See Note 12 for additional information.
[5]	In December of 2013, Praxair redeemed $400 million of 5.25% notes due November 2014 for $418 million resulting in an $18 million charge ($12 million after-tax) recorded within interest expense - net for the year ended December 31, 2013.
[6]	During 2013, Praxair issued the following notes totaling $2.55 billion: $500 million of 1.90% notes due 2019, $400 million of 0.75% notes due 2016, $500 million of 2.70% notes due 2023, $500 million of 1.20% notes due 2018, $175 million of 3.55% notes due 2042 and $475 million of 1.25% notes due 2018. The proceeds of these issuances were used for general corporate purposes.

Debt_Credit_Facilities_Details

Debt (Credit Facilities) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'
Borrowings Outstanding	'
$2.00 Billion Senior Unsecured Credit Facilty, expires in 2016	'
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'
Debt Covenant Limit	'0.7
Debt Covenant Actual Compliance	'0.53
Line of Credit [Member]	'
Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	2,000,000,000
Total Facility Prior To Increase	1,750,000,000
Available for Borrowing	2,000,000,000
Expires	26-Jul-16

Debt_Other_Debt_Information_De

Debt (Other Debt Information) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'
2014	$3		'
2015	924		'
2016	1,167	[1]	'
2017	727		'
2018	1,047		'
Thereafter	4,161		'
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion	8,029		6,724
Long-term Debt, Other Disclosures [Abstract]	'		'
Short Term Debt Weighted Average Interest Rate	0.40%		0.70%
Pledged Assets	12		'
Secured Long Term Debt	8		'
Debt Instruments That Retain Long Term Classification Due to Ability And Intent To Refinance Member	'		'
Debt Instrument Line Items	'		'
Senior Notes	$361		'
[1]	$361 million of debt due in 2014 has been reflected in 2016 maturities due to the company’s intent to refinance this debt on a long-term basis and the ability to do so under the $2 billion senior unsecured credit facility with a syndicate of banks which expires in 2016.

Financial_Instruments_Details

Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Jan. 31, 2010

Jan. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2002

Jun. 30, 2012

Aug. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2008

Feb. 29, 2008

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2009

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2008

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2002

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

January 2010 500 Million Dollar Swap

January 2010 400 Million Dollar Swap

2002 500 Million Dollar Swap

Jul 2012 Treasury Lock [Member]

Aug 2011Treasury Lock Member

December 2008 Treasury Lock Member

February 2008 Treasury Lock Member

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Cash Flow

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments - Fair Value

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]

Anticipated Net Income

Anticipated Net Income

Anticipated Net Income

Other Balance Sheet Items Member

Other Balance Sheet Items Member

Other Balance Sheet Items Member

Debt-Related Member

Debt-Related Member

Debt-Related Member

Foreign Exchange Contract

Foreign Exchange Contract

Foreign Exchange Contract

Foreign Exchange Contract

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Treasury Rate Locks Member

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Interest Rate Swap [Member]

Forecasted Purchases

Forecasted Purchases

Forecasted Purchases

Total Treasury Locks Member

Total Treasury Locks Member

Total Treasury Locks Member

Balance Sheet Items

Balance Sheet Items

Forecasted Purchases

Forecasted Purchases

Jul 2012 Treasury Lock [Member]

Jul 2012 Treasury Lock [Member]

Aug 2011Treasury Lock Member

Aug 2011Treasury Lock Member

Aug 2011Treasury Lock Member

December 2008 Treasury Lock Member

December 2008 Treasury Lock Member

December 2008 Treasury Lock Member

February 2008 Treasury Lock Member

February 2008 Treasury Lock Member

February 2008 Treasury Lock Member

Total Treasury Locks Member

Total Treasury Locks Member

January 2010 500 Million Dollar Swap

January 2010 500 Million Dollar Swap

January 2010 500 Million Dollar Swap

January 2010 400 Million Dollar Swap

January 2010 400 Million Dollar Swap

January 2010 400 Million Dollar Swap

September 2009 400 Million Dollar Swap

July 2013 475 Million Dollar Swap [Member]

2002 500 Million Dollar Swap

2002 500 Million Dollar Swap

2002 500 Million Dollar Swap

Derivative [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified During Next 12 Months, Net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notional Amount of Derivatives

3,077

2,925

'

'

'

'

'

'

500

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,197

2,515

5

10

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

875

400

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

880

410

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative Liabilities

14

8

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

14

[1]

8

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivatives Assets

26

38

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4

[1]

6

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

22

[2]

32

[2]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

22

32

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument Face Amount

'

'

'

500

[3]

400

[3]

500

[3]

500

[4]

500

[4]

600

[4]

500

[4]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

875

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

400

475

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument Interest Rate Stated Percentage

'

'

'

2.13%

1.75%

6.38%

2.20%

3.00%

4.50%

4.65%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.25%

1.25%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Deferred Gain Loss On Discontinuation Of Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4

[5]

'

'

4

[5]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Deferred Gain Loss On Discontinuation Of Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Recognized To Earnings

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4

[5]

15

[5]

15

[5]

4

[5]

9

[5]

5

[5]

5

[5]

6

[5]

'

'

'

1

[5]

4

[5]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Deferred Gain (Loss) on Hedge, Gross

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-2

[6]

-2

[6]

'

-9

[6]

-10

[6]

'

10

[6]

11

[6]

'

-1

[6]

-2

[6]

-2

[6]

-3

[6]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Payments for Hedge, Financing Activities

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-2

'

-11

'

'

'

'

'

-7

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amount of Pre-Tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-55

[7]

28

[7]

-29

[7]

'

-4

[7]

-1

[7]

-9

[7]

-1

[7]

-3

[7]

-46

[7]

33

[7]

-25

[7]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI, Before Tax

1

-1

-15

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1

[8]

-1

[8]

-15

[8]

1

[8]

1

[8]

-4

[8]

'

-2

[8]

-11

[8]

Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI to Earnings, Before Tax

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative Instruments, Tax Impact of Net Change in AOCI

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1

[6]

1

[6]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1

[8]

6

[8]

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI Net of Tax

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1

[8]

'

-9

[8]

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Change in AOCI

1

'

-9

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Original Deferred Gain on Settlement of Derivative Instruments - Gross

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

16

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

78

'

'

'

'

18

'

'

13

'

'

'

'

47

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative Instruments Gain Loss Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income Effective Portion Net Of Tax

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

($1)

[6]

($2)

[6]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

[1]

Assets are recorded in prepaid and other current assets, and liabilities are recorded in other current liabilities.

[2]

Assets are recorded in other long term assets.

[3]

The notional amounts of the interest rate contracts were equal to the underlying debt instruments.

[4]

The notional amount of the treasury rate lock contracts were equal to the underlying debt instrument with the exception of the treasury rate lock contract entered into to hedge the $600 million 4.50% fixed-rate notes that mature in 2019. The notional amount of this contract was $500 million.

[5]

The unrecognized gain for terminated interest rate swaps is shown as an increase to long-term debt and has been recognized on a straight line basis to interest expense—net over the term of the underlying debt agreements. Upon settlement of the underlying interest rate contract, the cash received was reflected within the Noncontrolling interest transactions and other in the financing section of the consolidated statement of cash flows.

[6]

The unrecognized gains / (losses) for the treasury rate locks are shown in accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") and will be recognized on a straight line basis to interest expense – net over the term of the underlying debt agreements. Upon settlement of the treasury rate lock contracts, the cash received or paid was reflected within Noncontrolling interest transactions and other in the financing section of the consolidated statement of cash flows. Refer to the table below summarizing the impact of the company’s consolidated statements of income and AOCI for current period gain (loss) recognition.

[7]

The gains (losses) on balance sheet items are offset by gains (losses) recorded on the underlying hedged assets and liabilities. The gains (losses) for the derivatives and the underlying hedged assets and liabilities related to debt items are recorded in the consolidated statements of income as interest expense-net. Other balance sheet items and anticipated net income gains (losses) are recorded in the consolidated statements of income as other income (expenses)-net.

[8]

The gains (losses) on forecasted purchase and treasury rate locks are recorded as a component of AOCI within derivative instruments in the consolidated statements of equity. There was no ineffectiveness for these instruments during 2013 or 2012. The gains (losses) on forecasted purchases are reclassified to the depreciation and amortization expense on a straight-line basis consistent with the useful life of the underlying asset. The gains (losses) for interest rate contracts are reclassified to earnings as interest expense –net on a straight-line basis over the remaining maturity of the underlying debt. Net losses of less than $1 million are expected to be reclassified to earning during 2014.

Fair_Value_Disclosures_Details

Fair Value Disclosures (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified			Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]	Level 1 Member	Level 1 Member	Level 2 Member	Level 2 Member	Level 2 Member	Level 2 Member	Level 3 Member	Level 3 Member
								Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring Basis	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Derivative assets	$26	$38	'	'	'	'	'	$26	$38	'	'
Derivative liabilities	14	8	'	'	'	'	'	14	8	'	'
Fair Value Additional Information [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Fair value of long-term debt	'	'	'	'	'	7,976	7,131	'	'	'	'
Carrying value of long-term debt including current portion	8,029	6,724	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Asset Impairment Charge	'	'	$21	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'

Equity_and_Redeemable_Noncontr2

Equity and Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Class of Stock Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Description	'As part of the transaction, the noncontrolling shareholder obtained the right to sell its shares to Praxair starting in 2015 for a period of 4 years at a formula price. Praxair also obtained the right to purchase the shares held by the noncontrolling shareholder starting in 2017 for a period of 2 years, also at a formula price. Accordingly, the noncontrolling interests related to Yara Praxair have been recorded in the consolidated balance sheets as redeemable noncontrolling interests. Other redeemable noncontrolling interests relate to three packaged gas distributors in the United States where the noncontrolling shareholders have put options.	'	'
Common Stock Shares Authorized	800,000,000	800,000,000	'
Common stock, par value (usd per share)	$0.01	$0.01	'
Common Stock Shares Issued	383,230,625	383,073,446	'
Common Stock Shares Outstanding	294,133,864	296,229,480	'
Preferred Stock Authorized	25,000,000	25,000,000	'
Preferred Stock Par Value	$0.01	$0.01	'
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Carrying Amount [Abstract]	'	'	'
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests, Beginning Balance	$252	$220	'
Reclassification from noncontrolling interest as of October 1, 2011	'	'	65
Yara Praxair Transaction	'	'	119
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest	24	18	2
Dividends Paid to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	-11	-9	'
Redemption value adjustments (Note 14)	53	13	35
Foreign currency translation and other	-11	10	-1
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests, Ending Balance	$307	$252	$220

ShareBased_Compensation_Detail

Share-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Praxair, Inc. Closing Stock Price	$130.03	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Outstanding at beginning of period - average exercise price	$74.05	'	'
Granted - average exercise price	$110.58	'	'
Exercised - average exercise price	$58.46	'	'
Cancelled or Expired - average exercise price	$106.15	'	'
Outstanding at end of period - average exercise price	$81.42	$74.05	'
Exercisable at December 31, 2013 - average exercise price	$72.40	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Stock Options Outstanding at Beginning of Period	12,281,000	'	'
Stock Options Granted	1,308,000	'	'
Stock Options Exercised	-2,357,000	'	'
Stock Options Cancelled or Expired	-71,000	'	'
Stock Options Outstanding at End of Period	11,161,000	12,281,000	'
Stock Options Exercisable at December 31, 2013	8,324,000	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract]	'	'	'
Dividend yield	2.20%	2.00%	2.00%
Volatility	21.70%	22.50%	22.30%
Risk-free interest rate	0.76%	0.86%	2.20%
Expected term years	'5 years	'5 years	'5 years
Additional Company Information [Abstract]	'	'	'
Share-based compensation expense	$70	$70	$62
Share-based compensation expense related income tax benefit	21	21	19
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Additional General Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'	'
Weighted-average fair values of options granted	$16.31	$17.43	$17.70
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised	143	165	191
Cash received from option exercises	138	'	'
Total Cash Tax Benefit	62	'	'
Excess tax benefit on stock based compensation	46	60	53
Average Remaining Life (years) [Abstract]	'	'	'
Outstanding at December 31, 2013 - average remaining life	'5 years 6 months	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	'4 years 6 months	'	'
Aggregate Intrinsic Value [Abstract]	'	'	'
Outstanding at December 31, 2013 - intrinsic value	543	'	'
Exercisable at December 31, 2013 - intrinsic value	480	'	'
Equity Plan 2009 Praxair, Inc. Long-term Incentive Plan For Employees Member	'	'	'
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of shares authorized for grant	12,000,000	'	'
Authorized for issuance as RS, RSU or PSU	4,000,000	'	'
Shares remaining available for equity grants	4,543,979	'	'
Equity Plan 2005 Equity Compensation Plan For Non-employee Directors Of Praxair, Inc. Member	'	'	'
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of shares authorized for grant	500,000	'	'
Stock Options [Member]	'	'	'
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Unrecognized compensation expense	$22	'	'
Performance Period (years)	'1 year	'	'

ShareBased_Compensation_PSU_an

Share-Based Compensation (PSU and RSU) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Additional Company Information [Abstract]	'		'	'
Performance based awards vesting, as a percentage of the target, low end of range	0.00%		'	'
Performance based awards vesting, as a percentage of the target, high end of range	200.00%		'	'
PX Performance Based Awards Member	'		'	'
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]	'		'	'
Additional Shares Granted due to Actual Payout of PSUs	98,000		'	'
Unrecognized compensation expense	$36		'	'
Performance Period (years)	'3 years		'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]	'		'	'
Non-vested at beginning of period	840,000		'	'
Granted	415,687	[1]	'	'
Vested	-371,000		'	'
Cancelled	-18,000		'	'
Non-vested at end of period	867,000		840,000	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Roll Forward]	'		'	'
Non-vested at beginning of period, grant date fair value	$88.83		'	'
Granted - average grant date fair value	$103.46		$103.13	$92.06
Vested - average grant date fair value	$70.95		'	'
Cancelled - average grant date fair value	$101.52		'	'
Non-vested at end of period, grant date fair value	$99.55		$88.83	'
Additional Company Information [Abstract]	'		'	'
Service Period For Restricted Stock	'2 years 3 months		'	'
Restricted Stock [Member]	'		'	'
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]	'		'	'
Unrecognized compensation expense	$14		'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]	'		'	'
Non-vested at beginning of period	368,000		'	'
Granted	118,612		'	'
Vested	-136,000		'	'
Cancelled	-14,000		'	'
Non-vested at end of period	337,000		368,000	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Roll Forward]	'		'	'
Non-vested at beginning of period, grant date fair value	$89.89		'	'
Granted - average grant date fair value	$105.79		$104.71	$92.39
Vested - average grant date fair value	$77.08		'	'
Cancelled - average grant date fair value	$101.15		'	'
Non-vested at end of period, grant date fair value	$100.41		$89.89	'
Additional Company Information [Abstract]	'		'	'
Service Period For Restricted Stock	'2 years 3 months		'	'
Restricted Stock [Member] | Minimum	'		'	'
Additional Company Information [Abstract]	'		'	'
Service Period For Restricted Stock	'2 years		'	'
Restricted Stock [Member] | Maximum	'		'	'
Additional Company Information [Abstract]	'		'	'
Service Period For Restricted Stock	'10 years		'	'
[1]	Performance-based stock unit grants during 2013 include 98 thousand shares relating to the actual payout of the 2010 PSU grants in 2013.

Retirement_Programs_Additional

Retirement Programs (Additional Information) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Multiemployer Plans [Abstract]	'	'	'
Multiemployer Plan Contributions	$2	$1	$1
Estimated number of union employees in multiemployer plans	200	'	'
Number of Multiemployer Plans Participated In	7	'	'
Number of Multiemployer Plans With Pending or Implemented Rehabilitation Plans	5	'	'
Multiemployer Plans, General Nature	'According to the most current data available, four of the MEPs that the Company participates are in a Red zone status; one is in a Yellow zone status; and two are in a Green zone status. As of December 31, 2013, the five Red and Yellow Zone plans have pending or have implemented financial improvement or rehabilitation plans.	'	'
Praxair U.S. Defined Contribution Savings Plans	'	'	'
Retirement Programs - Defined Contribution Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Defined Contribution Plan Contributions	25	24	22
Maximum amount employees may contribute to the respective plan subject to IRS limitations	40.00%	'	'
Shares of Common Stock in ESOPs	3,208,478	'	'
Praxair International Defined Contribution Savings Plans	'	'	'
Retirement Programs - Defined Contribution Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Defined Contribution Plan Contributions	$17	$12	$12

Retirement_Programs_Net_Pensio

Retirement Programs (Net Pension and OPEB costs) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
U.S. Pension Plans [Member]	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Service cost	$38		$34		'
Interest cost	74		79		'
Pension settlements	9	[1]	9	[1]	'
Pension Plans Defined Benefit Member	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Service cost	56		49		44
Interest cost	112		119		120
Expected return on plan assets	-149		-153		-147
Net amortization and deferral	91		68		43
Net periodic benefit cost before pension settlement charge	110		83		60
Pension settlements	9	[1]	10	[1]	6
Net periodic benefit cost	119		93		66
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Defined Benefit	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Service cost	5		4		4
Interest cost	11		12		14
Expected return on plan assets	'		'		'
Net amortization and deferral	-5		-7		-6
Net periodic benefit cost before pension settlement charge	11		9		12
Pension settlements	'		'		'
Net periodic benefit cost	$11		$9		$12
[1]	2012 and 2013 includes a $9 million charges in the third quarter related to the retirement of senior managers in the United States (see Note 2)

Retirement_Programs_Funded_Sta

Retirement Programs (Funded Status) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Other Long-Term Assets	$42	'	'
Other Current Liabilities	-33	-46	'
Other Long-Term Liabilities	-498	-909	'
Deferred Tax Benefit	-247	-427	'
U.S. Pension Plans [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Benefit Obligation January 1	1,926	1,721	'
Service cost	38	34	'
Interest cost	74	79	'
Actuarial Loss (Gain)	-148	182	'
Benefits Paid	-99	-90	'
Benefit Obligation December 31	1,791	1,926	'
Accumulated Benefit Obligation	1,712	1,831	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, Beginning of Year	1,391	1,138	'
Gains or losses for the period	271	159	'
Company Contributions	35	165	'
Benefits Paid From Plan Assets	-77	-71	'
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	1,620	1,391	'
Other Current Liabilities	-10	-21	'
Other Long-Term Liabilities	-161	-514	'
Fund status - net amount recognized, December 31	-171	-535	'
Net Actuarial Loss (Gain)	563	956	'
Prior Service Cost (Credit)	1	-1	'
Deferred Tax Benefit	-215	-364	'
Amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	349	591	'
International Pension Plans Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Benefit Obligation January 1	727	624	'
Service cost	18	15	'
Interest cost	38	40	'
Actuarial Loss (Gain)	-43	89	'
Benefits Paid	-38	-43	'
Foreign Currency Translation	-41	2	'
Benefit Obligation December 31	661	727	'
Accumulated Benefit Obligation	629	678	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, Beginning of Year	558	504	'
Gains or losses for the period	43	70	'
Company Contributions	17	19	'
Benefits Paid From Plan Assets	-33	-39	'
Foreign Currency Translation	-34	4	'
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	551	558	'
Other Long-Term Assets	42	'	'
Other Current Liabilities	-6	-6	'
Other Long-Term Liabilities	-146	-163	'
Fund status - net amount recognized, December 31	-110	-169	'
Net Actuarial Loss (Gain)	145	217	'
Prior Service Cost (Credit)	18	23	'
Deferred Tax Benefit	-38	-56	'
Amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	125	184	'
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Benefit Obligation January 1	251	226	'
Service cost	5	4	4
Interest cost	11	12	14
Participant Contribution	11	9	'
Actuarial Loss (Gain)	-39	31	'
Benefits Paid	-23	-29	'
Foreign Currency Translation	-8	-2	'
Benefit Obligation December 31	208	251	226
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Other Current Liabilities	-17	-19	'
Other Long-Term Liabilities	-191	-232	'
Fund status - net amount recognized, December 31	-208	-251	'
Net Actuarial Loss (Gain)	-7	34	'
Prior Service Cost (Credit)	-4	-10	'
Deferred Tax Benefit	6	-7	'
Amount recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	($5)	$17	'

Retirement_Programs_Changes_In

Retirement Programs (Changes In Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized in OCI) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Plans Defined Benefit Member	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Current Year Net Actuarial Loss (Gain)	($356)	[1]	$195	[1]	'
Amortization of Net Actuarial Loss	-90		-67		'
Amortization of Prior Service Costs	-1		-1		'
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements	-9	[2]	-10	[2]	-6
Foreign Currency Translation and Other	-12		3		'
Total Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income	-468		120		'
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Defined Benefit	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Current Year Net Actuarial Loss (Gain)	-39	[1]	31	[1]	'
Amortization of Net Actuarial Loss	-1		'		'
Amortization of Prior Service Costs	6		7		'
Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements	'		'		'
Foreign Currency Translation and Other	-1		-1		'
Total Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income	($35)		$37		'
[1]	The pension net actuarial gain in 2013 relates primarily to the increase in discount rates, when compared to 2012. The pension net actuarial loss in 2012 relates primarily to lower discount rates, when compared to 2011. The OPEB net actuarial gain in 2013 relates primarily to higher discount rates, and the 2012 net actuarial loss relates primarily to lower discount rates.
[2]	2012 and 2013 includes a $9 million charges in the third quarter related to the retirement of senior managers in the United States (see Note 2)

Retirement_Programs_AOCI_Expec

Retirement Programs (AOCI Expected to be Recognized as Components of Net Periodic Benefit Costs in 2011) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Pension Plans Defined Benefit Member	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Net Actuarial Loss (Gain)	$59
Prior Service Cost (Credit)	1
Total AOCI Expected to be Recognized as Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost During Upcoming Year	60
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Defined Benefit	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Net Actuarial Loss (Gain)	'
Prior Service Cost (Credit)	-6
Total AOCI Expected to be Recognized as Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost During Upcoming Year	($6)

Retirement_Programs_Plans_Wher

Retirement Programs (Plans Where the ABO Exceeds Plan Assets Fair Value) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'
Plan Assets Related To U.S. Pension Plan Exceeds Accumulated Benefit Obligations	$23		'
U.S. Pension Plans [Member]	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'
Projected Benefit Obligation	244	[1]	1,926
Accumulated Benefit Obligation	241	[1]	1,831
Fair Value of Plan Assets	127	[1]	1,391
International Pension Plans Defined Benefit	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'
Projected Benefit Obligation	360		402
Accumulated Benefit Obligation	352		391
Fair Value of Plan Assets	$207		$246
[1]	In 2013, plan assets related to the main U.S. retirement program exceeded the ABO by $23 million and was therefore excluded from the table above.

Retirement_Programs_Assumption

Retirement Programs (Assumptions Used in Determining Benefit Obligations and Net Benefit Costs) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]	'	'		'
Healthcare Cost Trend Assumed	'	8.00%		8.50%
Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate	'	5.00%		5.00%
Year in Which the Rate Reaches the Ultimate Trend Rate	'	'2020		'2020
Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One-Percentage Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Abstract]	'	'		'
One Percent Increase On Service And Interest Cost Components on Net OPEB	'	1		'
One Percent Decrease On Service And Interest Cost Components on Net OPEB	'	-1		'
One Percent Increase Of OPEB Benefit Obligation	'	6		'
One Percent Decrease Of OPEB Benefit Obligation	'	-5		'
U.S. Pension Plans [Member]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Discount Rate - Utilized for Obligation	'	4.80%		3.90%
Rate of Increase in Compensation Levels - Utilized for Obligation	'	3.25%		3.25%
Discount Rate - Utilized for Expense	'	3.90%		4.70%
Rate of Increase in Compensation Levels - Utilized for Expense	'	3.25%		3.25%
Expected Long-Term Rate of Return on Plan Assets - Utilized for Expense	8.00%	8.00%	[1]	8.25%
U.S. Pension Plans [Member] | Return Experienced Over Last 10 years [Member]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Rate of Return on Plan Assets	'	6.70%		'
U.S. Pension Plans [Member] | Return Experienced Over Last 20 years [Member]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Rate of Return on Plan Assets	'	7.80%		'
International Pension Plans Defined Benefit	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Discount Rate - Utilized for Obligation	'	6.30%		5.80%
Rate of Increase in Compensation Levels - Utilized for Obligation	'	4.00%		4.00%
Discount Rate - Utilized for Expense	'	5.80%		7.00%
Rate of Increase in Compensation Levels - Utilized for Expense	'	4.00%		3.90%
Expected Long-Term Rate of Return on Plan Assets - Utilized for Expense	'	7.50%		8.70%
International Pension Plans Defined Benefit | Return Experienced Over Last 10 years [Member]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Rate of Return on Plan Assets	'	7.60%		'
International Pension Plans Defined Benefit | Return Experienced Over Last 20 years [Member]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Rate of Return on Plan Assets	'	8.90%		'
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Defined Benefit	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Discount Rate - Utilized for Obligation	'	5.87%		5.00%
Discount Rate - Utilized for Expense	'	5.00%		5.70%
Equity Securities [Member] | U.S. Pension Plans [Member]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Rate of Return on Plan Assets	'	9.50%		'
Equity Securities [Member] | International Pension Plans Defined Benefit	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Rate of Return on Plan Assets	'	10.00%		'
Fixed Income Pooled Funds | U.S. Pension Plans [Member]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Rate of Return on Plan Assets	'	5.50%		'
Fixed Income Pooled Funds | International Pension Plans Defined Benefit	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Rate of Return on Plan Assets	'	7.50%		'
Other Investment [Member] | International Pension Plans Defined Benefit	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'		'
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Rate of Return on Plan Assets	'	7.50%		'
[1]	The expected long term rate of return on the U.S. and international plan assets is estimated based on the plans' investment strategy and asset allocation, historical capital market performance and, to a lesser extent, historical plan performance. For the U.S. plans, the expected rate of return of 8.00% was derived based on the target asset allocation of 60%-80% equity securities (approximately 9.5% expected return), and 20%-40% fixed income securities (approximately 5.5% expected return). For the international plans, the expected rate of return was derived based on the weighted average target asset allocation of 30%-50% equity securities (approximately 10% expected return), 40%-60% fixed income securities (approximately 7.5% expected return), and 0%-10% alternative investments (approximately 7.5% expected return). For the U.S. plan assets, the actual annualized total returns for the most recent 10-year and 20-year periods ended December 31, 2013 were approximately 6.7% and 7.8%, respectively. For the international plan assets, the actual annualized total returns for the same two periods were approximately 7.6% and 8.9%, respectively. Changes to plan asset allocations and investment strategy over this time period limit the value of historical plan performance as factor in estimating the expected long term rate of return. For 2014, the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets will be 8.00% for the U.S. plans. Expected weighted average returns for international plans will vary. OPEBAssumed healthcare cost trend rates2013 2012Healthcare cost trend assumed8.00% 8.50%Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)5.00% 5.00%Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate2020 2020

Retirement_Programs_Pension_Pl

Retirement Programs (Pension Plan Asset Allocations) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
U.S. Pension Plans [Member] | Equity Securities [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Target Asset Allocation Range - Minimum	60.00%	'
Target Asset Allocation Range - Maximum	80.00%	'
Weighted Average Asset Allocation	70.00%	64.00%
U.S. Pension Plans [Member] | Fixed Income Investments [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Target Asset Allocation Range - Minimum	20.00%	'
Target Asset Allocation Range - Maximum	40.00%	'
Weighted Average Asset Allocation	30.00%	36.00%
International Pension Plans Defined Benefit | Equity Securities [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Target Asset Allocation Range - Minimum	30.00%	'
Target Asset Allocation Range - Maximum	50.00%	'
Weighted Average Asset Allocation	48.00%	37.00%
International Pension Plans Defined Benefit | Fixed Income Investments [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Target Asset Allocation Range - Minimum	40.00%	'
Target Asset Allocation Range - Maximum	60.00%	'
Weighted Average Asset Allocation	43.00%	54.00%
International Pension Plans Defined Benefit | Other Investment [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Target Asset Allocation Range - Minimum	0.00%	'
Target Asset Allocation Range - Maximum	10.00%	'
Weighted Average Asset Allocation	9.00%	9.00%

Retirement_Programs_Pension_Pl1

Retirement Programs (Pension Plan Asset Fair Value By Category And Level 3 Rollforward) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Level 1 Member | Cash And Cash Equivalents	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	$2	$8
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	2	8
Level 1 Member | U S Equity Securities	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	285	372
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	285	372
Level 1 Member | International Equity Securities	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	82	72
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	82	72
Level 1 Member | Equity Mutual Funds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	393	316
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	393	316
Level 1 Member | U.S. Government Bonds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	39	48
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	39	48
Level 1 Member | International Government Bonds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	128	184
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	128	184
Level 1 Member | Fixed Income Mutual Funds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	308	312
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	308	312
Level 1 Member | Total pension assets, by level	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	1,237	1,312
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	1,237	1,312
Level 2 Member | Pooled Funds in Equity Securities	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	630	333
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	630	333
Level 2 Member | Corporate Bonds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	176	169
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	176	169
Level 2 Member | Fixed Income Pooled Funds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	80	87
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	80	87
Level 2 Member | Total pension assets, by level	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	886	589
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	886	589
Level 3 Member | Insurance Contract	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	48	48
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, Beginning of Year	48	49
Acquisition	'	'
Gains or losses for the period	'	1
Net Settlements	'	-2
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	48	48
Level 3 Member | Total pension assets, by level	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	48	48
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	48	48
Total pension assets for all levels | Cash And Cash Equivalents	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	2	8
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	2	8
Total pension assets for all levels | U S Equity Securities	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	285	372
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	285	372
Total pension assets for all levels | International Equity Securities	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	82	72
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	82	72
Total pension assets for all levels | Equity Mutual Funds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	393	316
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	393	316
Total pension assets for all levels | Pooled Funds in Equity Securities	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	630	333
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	630	333
Total pension assets for all levels | U.S. Government Bonds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	39	48
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	39	48
Total pension assets for all levels | International Government Bonds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	128	184
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	128	184
Total pension assets for all levels | Fixed Income Mutual Funds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	308	312
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	308	312
Total pension assets for all levels | Corporate Bonds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	176	169
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	176	169
Total pension assets for all levels | Fixed Income Pooled Funds	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	80	87
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	80	87
Total pension assets for all levels | Insurance Contract	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	48	48
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	48	48
Total pension assets for all levels | Total pension assets, by level	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	2,171	1,949
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	2,171	1,949
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Defined Benefit	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Net Settlements	-23	-29
U.S. Pension Plans [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	1,620	1,391
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, Beginning of Year	1,391	1,138
Gains or losses for the period	271	159
Net Settlements	-99	-90
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	1,620	1,391
Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value of Plan Assets	551	558
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, Beginning of Year	558	504
Gains or losses for the period	43	70
Net Settlements	-38	-43
Defined Benefit Plan Fair Value of Plan Assets Balance, End of Year	$551	$558

Retirement_Programs_Contributi

Retirement Programs (Contributions and Future Estimated Payments) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Contributions [Abstract]	'	'	'
Estimated Pension plan contributions during next fiscal year	$25	'	'
Pension Contributions	52	184	94
U.S. Pension Plans [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2014	94	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2015	101	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2016	104	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2017	110	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2018	115	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2019-2023	630	'	'
International Pension Plans Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2014	37	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2015	36	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2016	37	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2017	38	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2018	39	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2019-2023	206	'	'
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Defined Benefit	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2014	18	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2015	19	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2016	18	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2017	18	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2018	17	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments in 2019-2023	$75	'	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies (Lawsuits and Goverment Investigations) (Details)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
	USD ($)	BRL	USD ($)	USD ($)	Unconditional Purchase Obligations	Construction Commitments	Guarantees And Other
					USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)
Gain And Loss Contingencies [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Brazil tax matters estimated exposure	$188	'	'	'	'	'	'
Initial CADE civil fine imposed	939	2,200	'	'	'	'	'
Revised CADE civil fine	726	1,700	'	'	'	'	'
Percentage Of Guarantees To Brazilian Court Satisfied By Letters Of Credit	50.00%	50.00%	'	'	'	'	'
Percentage Of Guarantees To Brazilian Court Satisfied By Equity	50.00%	50.00%	'	'	'	'	'
Outstanding letters of credit, bank guarantees and surety bonds	1,464	'	'	'	'	'	'
Letters of credit provided as guaranteed for Brazilian Court	541	'	'	'	'	'	'
Material Commitments and Contracual Obligations [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
2014	'	'	'	'	'	1,071	45
2015	'	'	'	'	'	515	9
2016	'	'	'	'	'	117	'
Thereafter	'	'	'	'	'	'	18
Total	'	'	'	'	'	1,703	72
2014	'	'	'	'	529	'	'
2015	'	'	'	'	444	'	'
2016	'	'	'	'	421	'	'
2017	'	'	'	'	409	'	'
2018	'	'	'	'	404	'	'
Thereafter	'	'	'	'	3,542	'	'
Total	'	'	'	'	5,749	'	'
Unconditional Purchase Obligation Payments	'	'	'	'	1,138	'	'
Unconditional Purchase Obligation Payments, Electricty	'	'	'	'	649	'	'
Unconditional Purchase Obligations Payments, Natural Gas	'	'	'	'	227	'	'
Unrecognized Unconditional Future Purchase Obligation Electricity	'	'	'	'	3,801	'	'
Unrecognized Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Silane	'	'	'	'	161	'	'
Contingent Obligations Under Guarantees Of Certain Debt Of Unconsolidated Affiliates	'	'	'	'	'	'	70
Guarantees And Other - Oustanding Receivables And Repurchase Agreements	'	'	'	'	'	'	2
Total Debt Of Unconsolidated Equity Investees	489	'	'	'	'	'	'
Former Gain Contingency, Recognized in Current Period	$10	'	$24	'	'	'	'

Segments_Details

Segments (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, 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

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

$690

[1]

$670

[1]

$665

$600

[1]

$616

$558

[1]

$636

$627

$2,625

[1]

$2,437

[1]

$2,468

Venezuela currency devaluation and other charges (Note 2)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-32

-65

-1

Sales

3,010

3,013

3,014

2,888

2,799

2,774

2,811

2,840

11,925

[2]

11,224

[2]

11,252

[2]

Segment Assets

20,255

[3]

'

'

'

18,090

[3]

'

'

'

20,255

[3]

18,090

[3]

16,356

[3]

Segment Depreciation and Amortization

287

281

275

266

254

248

247

252

1,109

1,001

1,003

Segment Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,343

2,460

2,091

Equity investments

702

'

'

'

654

'

'

'

702

654

523

Atmospheric gases and related [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

8,451

8,104

[4]

8,005

[4]

Process gases and other [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,822

2,464

[4]

2,599

[4]

Surface Technologies Segment [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

652

656

[4]

648

[4]

North America Segment Member

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,538

1,465

1,331

Sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

6,164

[2]

5,598

[2]

5,490

[2]

Segment Assets

10,133

[3]

'

'

'

8,491

[3]

'

'

'

10,133

[3]

8,491

[3]

7,402

[3]

Segment Depreciation and Amortization

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

567

498

495

Segment Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,106

1,303

880

Equity investments

128

[5]

'

'

'

135

[5]

'

'

'

128

[5]

135

[5]

49

[5]

South America Segment Member

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

467

429

530

Sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,042

[2]

2,082

[2]

2,308

[2]

Segment Assets

2,934

'

'

'

3,205

'

'

'

2,934

3,205

3,194

Segment Depreciation and Amortization

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

181

184

197

Segment Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

284

351

396

Europe Segment Member

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

270

256

272

Sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,542

[2]

1,474

[2]

1,458

[2]

Segment Assets

3,408

[3]

'

'

'

2,957

[3]

'

'

'

3,408

[3]

2,957

[3]

2,728

[3]

Segment Depreciation and Amortization

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

169

149

141

Segment Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

451

322

339

Equity investments

218

[5]

'

'

'

199

[5]

'

'

'

218

[5]

199

[5]

183

[5]

Asia Segment Member

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

271

246

234

Sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,525

[2]

1,414

[2]

1,348

[2]

Segment Assets

3,098

[3]

'

'

'

2,757

[3]

'

'

'

3,098

[3]

2,757

[3]

2,366

[3]

Segment Depreciation and Amortization

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

150

127

126

Segment Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

459

431

431

Equity investments

356

[5]

'

'

'

320

[5]

'

'

'

356

[5]

320

[5]

291

[5]

Surface Technologies Segment [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

111

106

102

Sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

652

[2]

656

[2]

648

[2]

Segment Assets

682

'

'

'

680

'

'

'

682

680

666

Segment Depreciation and Amortization

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

42

43

44

Segment Capital Expenditures and Acquisitions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

43

53

45

Total Segments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,657

2,502

2,469

Venezuela currency devaluation and other charges (Note 2)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-32

-65

-1

Total Impact Of Items [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

($32)

($65)

($1)

[1]

2013 and 2012 include the impact of the following benefits/(charges) (see Notes 2, 5 & 11):

[2]

Sales reflect external sales only. Intersegment Sales, primarily from North America to other segments, were not material.

[3]

Includes equity investments as of December 31, as follows:

[4]

Prior years' amounts have been reclassified to conform to current year's presentation.

[5]

The 2013 increase primarily relates to current year equity investment earnings. The 2012 increase in North America relates to the formation of a packaged gas joint venture with Nexair LLC in the Southeastern United States.

Segments_Sales_and_Assets_by_M

Segments (Sales and Assets by Major Country) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, 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

Sales by Major Country [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales

$3,010

$3,013

$3,014

$2,888

$2,799

$2,774

$2,811

$2,840

$11,925

[1]

$11,224

[1]

$11,252

[1]

Long-Lived Assets by Major Country

12,278

[2]

'

'

'

11,453

[2]

'

'

'

12,278

[2]

11,453

[2]

10,131

[2]

United States Member

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales by Major Country [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,764

4,305

4,206

Long-Lived Assets by Major Country

4,723

[2]

'

'

'

4,255

[2]

'

'

'

4,723

[2]

4,255

[2]

3,646

[2]

Brazil Member

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales by Major Country [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,603

1,668

1,931

Long-Lived Assets by Major Country

1,376

[2]

'

'

'

1,535

[2]

'

'

'

1,376

[2]

1,535

[2]

1,584

[2]

Other International Member

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales by Major Country [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5,558

5,251

5,115

Long-Lived Assets by Major Country

$6,179

[2]

'

'

'

$5,663

[2]

'

'

'

$6,179

[2]

$5,663

[2]

$4,901

[2]

[1]

Sales reflect external sales only. Intersegment Sales, primarily from North America to other segments, were not material.

[2]

Long-lived assets include property, plant and equipment – net.

Quarterly_Data_Details

Quarterly Data (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, except Share data in Thousands, 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

Additional Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

$690

[1]

$670

[1]

$665

$600

[1]

$616

$558

[1]

$636

$627

$2,625

[1]

$2,437

[1]

$2,468

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

474

[1]

445

[1]

445

391

[1]

414

430

[1]

429

419

1,755

[1]

1,692

[1]

1,672

Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Sales

3,010

3,013

3,014

2,888

2,799

2,774

2,811

2,840

11,925

[2]

11,224

[2]

11,252

[2]

Cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization

1,699

1,697

1,710

1,638

1,583

1,595

1,602

1,616

6,744

6,396

6,458

Depreciation and amortization

287

281

275

266

254

248

247

252

1,109

1,001

1,003

Operating Profit (Loss)

690

[1]

670

[1]

665

600

[1]

616

558

[1]

636

627

2,625

[1]

2,437

[1]

2,468

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

474

[1]

445

[1]

445

391

[1]

414

430

[1]

429

419

1,755

[1]

1,692

[1]

1,672

Basic Earnings Per Common Share

$1.61

$1.51

$1.50

$1.32

$1.40

$1.44

$1.43

$1.40

$5.94

$5.67

$5.53

Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in thousands)

294,697

295,124

295,668

296,604

296,887

298,416

298,885

299,077

295,523

298,316

302,237

Diluted Earnings Per Common Share

$1.59

$1.49

$1.49

$1.30

$1.38

$1.43

$1.42

$1.38

$5.87

$5.61

$5.45

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in thousands)

298,225

298,357

298,654

299,700

300,224

301,731

302,492

302,876

298,965

301,845

306,722

Venezuela Currency Devaluation [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

-23

'

'

'

'

-23

'

'

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

'

'

'

-23

'

'

'

'

-23

'

'

Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

-23

'

'

'

'

-23

'

'

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

'

'

'

-23

'

'

'

'

-23

'

'

Cost Reduction Program [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

-56

'

'

'

-56

-40

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

'

'

'

'

'

-38

'

'

'

-38

-31

Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

-56

'

'

'

-56

-40

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

'

'

'

'

'

-38

'

'

'

-38

-31

Yara-Praxair Acquistion Member

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

39

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

37

Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

39

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

37

Pension Settlement Charge [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

-9

'

'

'

-9

'

'

-9

-9

'

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

'

-6

'

'

'

-6

'

'

-6

-6

'

Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

-9

'

'

'

-9

'

'

-9

-9

'

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

'

-6

'

'

'

-6

'

'

-6

-6

'

Income tax benefit [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

24

'

'

'

'

55

'

'

'

'

'

Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

24

'

'

'

'

55

'

'

'

'

'

Total Impact Of Items [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-32

-65

-1

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-17

11

'

Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-32

-65

-1

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-17

11

'

Bond Redemption [Member]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

-12

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Operating Profit (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Income (Loss) – Praxair, Inc.

($12)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

[1]

2013 and 2012 include the impact of the following benefits/(charges) (see Notes 2, 5 & 11):

[2]

Sales reflect external sales only. Intersegment Sales, primarily from North America to other segments, were not material.