Albemarle (ALB) 8-K 8 Aug 14 Other Events Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Document And Entity Information [Abstract] [Abstract]	'
Document Type	'8-K
Amendment Flag	'false
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-13
Trading Symbol	'ALB
Entity Registrant Name	'ALBEMARLE CORP
Entity Central Index Key	'0000915913

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$477,239	$477,696
Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts (2013—$1,614; 2012—$1,641)	446,864	378,973
Other accounts receivable	45,094	43,844
Inventories:	'	'
Finished goods	340,863	325,762
Raw materials	47,784	57,245
Stores, supplies and other	47,402	45,138
Inventory, Net, Total	436,049	428,145
Other current assets	77,669	78,655
Total current assets	1,482,915	1,407,313
Property, plant and equipment, at cost	2,972,084	2,818,604
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	1,615,015	1,522,033
Net property, plant and equipment	1,357,069	1,296,571
Investments	212,178	207,141
Other assets	160,229	154,836
Goodwill	284,203	276,966
Other intangibles, net of amortization	88,203	94,464
Total assets	3,584,797	3,437,291
Current liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	194,064	172,866
Accrued expenses	190,533	177,546
Current portion of long-term debt	24,554	12,700
Dividends payable	19,197	17,471
Income taxes payable	8,015	4,426
Total current liabilities	436,363	385,009
Long-term debt	1,054,310	686,588
Postretirement benefits	53,903	60,815
Pension benefits	57,647	195,481
Other noncurrent liabilities	110,610	114,022
Deferred income taxes	129,188	63,368
Commitments and contingencies (Note 15)	'	'
Albemarle Corporation shareholders’ equity:	'	'
Common stock, $.01 par value (authorized 150,000 shares), issued and outstanding — 80,053 in 2013 and 88,899 in 2012	801	889
Additional paid-in capital	9,957	2,761
Accumulated other comprehensive income	116,245	85,264
Retained earnings	1,500,358	1,744,684
Total Albemarle Corporation shareholders’ equity	1,627,361	1,833,598
Noncontrolling interests	115,415	98,410
Total equity	1,742,776	1,932,008
Total liabilities and equity	$3,584,797	$3,437,291

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS_Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Trade accounts receivables, allowance for doubtful accounts	$1,614	$1,641
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	150,000,000	150,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	80,053,000	88,899,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	80,053,000	88,899,000

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_INC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Net sales	$2,394,270	[1]	$2,519,154	[1]	$2,651,667	[1]
Cost of goods sold	1,543,799		1,620,311		1,699,951
Gross profit	850,471		898,843		951,716
Selling, general and administrative expenses	158,189		308,456		354,885
Research and development expenses	82,246		78,919		77,083
Restructuring and other charges, net (Note 19)	33,361	[2]	111,685	[2]	0	[2]
Operating profit	576,675		399,783		519,748
Interest and financing expenses	-31,559		-32,800		-37,574
Other (expenses) income, net	-6,674		1,229		357
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	538,442		368,212		482,531
Income tax expense	134,445		80,433		104,471
Income from continuing operations before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	403,997		287,779		378,060
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)	31,729		38,067		43,754
Net income from continuing operations	435,726		325,846		421,814
Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)	4,108		4,281		-1,617
Net income	439,834		330,127		420,197
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-26,663		-18,591		-28,083
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$413,171		$311,536		$392,114
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$4.88		$3.44		$4.35
Basic earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	$0.05		$0.05		($0.02)
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$4.93		$3.49		$4.33
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$4.85		$3.42		$4.30
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	$0.05		$0.05		($0.02)
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$4.90		$3.47		$4.28
Weighted-average common shares outstanding-basic (in shares)	83,839		89,189		90,522
Weighted-average common shares outstanding-diluted (in dollars per share)	84,322		89,884		91,522
Cash dividends declared per share of common stock (in dollars per share)	$0.96		$0.80		$0.67
[1]	No sales in a foreign country exceed 10% of total net sales. Also, net sales are attributed to countries based upon shipments to final destination.
[2]	See Note 19, “Special Items.”

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_COM

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Net income	$439,834	$330,127	$420,197
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	'	'	'
Foreign currency translation	31,704	28,769	-13,565
Pension and postretirement benefits	-502	-4,071	-1,362
Other	135	134	162
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	31,337	24,832	-14,765
Comprehensive income	471,171	354,959	405,432
Comprehensive income attributable to non-controlling interests	-27,019	-18,488	-27,878
Comprehensive income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$444,152	$336,471	$377,554

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CHA

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Retained Earnings	Total Albemarle Shareholders’ Equity	Non- controlling Interests
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2010	$1,475,746	$916	$18,835	$74,889	$1,321,434	$1,416,074	$59,672
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2010	'	91,593,984	'	'	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	420,197	'	'	'	392,114	392,114	28,083
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-14,765	'	'	-14,560	'	-14,560	-205
Cash dividends declared	-60,450	'	'	'	-60,450	-60,450	'
Stock-based compensation and other	26,556	'	26,556	'	'	26,556	'
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	'	169,350	'	'	'	'	'
Exercise of stock options	2,230	2	2,228	'	'	2,230	'
Shares repurchased (in shares)	'	-3,000,000	'	'	'	'	'
Shares repurchased	-178,132	-30	-39,870	'	-138,232	-178,132	'
Tax benefit related to stock plans	10,574	'	10,574	'	'	10,574	'
Issuance of common stock, net (in shares)	'	131,713	'	'	'	'	'
Issuance of common stock, net	'	1	-1	'	'	'	'
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances (in shares)	'	-53,807	'	'	'	'	'
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances	-3,129	-1	-3,128	'	'	-3,129	'
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2011	1,678,827	888	15,194	60,329	1,514,866	1,591,277	87,550
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2011	'	88,841,240	'	'	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	330,127	'	'	'	311,536	311,536	18,591
Other comprehensive income (loss)	24,832	'	'	24,935	'	24,935	-103
Cash dividends declared	-78,975	'	'	'	-71,347	-71,347	-7,628
Stock-based compensation and other	13,939	'	13,939	'	'	13,939	'
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	'	949,170	'	'	'	'	'
Exercise of stock options	21,148	9	21,139	'	'	21,148	'
Shares repurchased (in shares)	'	-1,092,767	'	'	'	'	'
Shares repurchased	-63,575	-11	-53,193	'	-10,371	-63,575	'
Tax benefit related to stock plans	14,809	'	14,809	'	'	14,809	'
Issuance of common stock, net (in shares)	'	341,620	'	'	'	'	'
Issuance of common stock, net	'	4	-4	'	'	'	'
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances (in shares)	'	-140,054	'	'	'	'	'
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances	-9,124	-1	-9,123	'	'	-9,124	'
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2012	1,932,008	889	2,761	85,264	1,744,684	1,833,598	98,410
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012	'	88,899,209	'	'	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	439,834	'	'	'	413,171	413,171	26,663
Other comprehensive income (loss)	31,337	'	'	30,981	'	30,981	356
Cash dividends declared	-89,847	'	'	'	-79,833	-79,833	-10,014
Stock-based compensation and other	9,072	'	9,072	'	'	9,072	'
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	191,732	191,732	'	'	'	'	'
Exercise of stock options	5,553	2	5,551	'	'	5,553	'
Shares repurchased (in shares)	'	-9,198,056	'	'	'	'	'
Shares repurchased	-582,298	-92	-4,542	'	-577,664	-582,298	'
Tax benefit related to stock plans	3,266	'	3,266	'	'	3,266	'
Issuance of common stock, net (in shares)	'	256,834	'	'	'	'	'
Issuance of common stock, net	'	3	-3	'	'	'	'
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances (in shares)	'	-96,877	'	'	'	'	'
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances	-6,149	-1	-6,148	'	'	-6,149	'
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$1,742,776	$801	$9,957	$116,245	$1,500,358	$1,627,361	$115,415
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013	'	80,052,842	'	'	'	'	'

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CAS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	$477,696	$469,416	$529,650
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net income	439,834	330,127	420,197
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	107,370	99,020	96,753
Write-offs associated with restructuring and other	0	61,809	0
Stock-based compensation	10,164	15,211	27,069
Excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements	-3,266	-14,809	-10,574
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)	-31,729	-38,067	-43,754
Dividends received from unconsolidated investments and nonmarketable securities	21,632	26,908	23,685
Pension and postretirement (benefit) expense	-132,707	77,442	97,207
Pension and postretirement contributions	-13,294	-21,610	-59,773
Unrealized gain on investments in marketable securities	-3,681	-1,872	-688
Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes	64,865	-14,587	-11,198
Change in current assets and liabilities:	'	'	'
Increase in accounts receivable	-65,906	-25,992	-16,435
(Increase) decrease in inventories	-1,810	7,364	-41,749
Decrease (increase) in other current assets excluding deferred income taxes	5,261	-19,590	4,499
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable	21,316	-16,798	-11,971
Increase in accrued expenses and income taxes payable	10,136	7,306	28,229
Other, net	4,674	16,904	-14,138
Net cash provided by operating activities	432,859	488,766	487,359
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Capital expenditures	-155,346	-280,873	-190,574
Cash payments related to acquisitions and other	-2,565	-3,360	-13,164
Cash proceeds from divestitures	0	9,646	0
Sales of (investments in) marketable securities, net	169	-1,615	1,670
Long-term advances to joint ventures	0	-24,959	0
Investments in equity and other corporate investments	0	0	-10,868
Net cash used in investing activities	-157,742	-301,161	-212,936
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Repayments of long-term debt	-135,733	-14,390	-9,043
Proceeds from borrowings of long-term debt	117,000	0	3,510
Other borrowings (repayments), net	398,544	-49,421	-94,643
Dividends paid to shareholders	-78,107	-69,113	-57,759
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests	-10,014	-7,628	0
Repurchases of common stock	-582,298	-63,575	-178,132
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	5,553	21,148	2,230
Excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements	3,266	14,809	10,574
Withholding taxes paid on stock-based compensation award distributions	-6,149	-9,124	-3,129
Debt financing costs	-108	0	-2,727
Net cash used in financing activities	-288,046	-177,294	-329,119
Net effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents	12,472	-2,031	-5,538
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	-457	8,280	-60,234
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$477,239	$477,696	$469,416

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies:
	Basis of Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts and operations of Albemarle Corporation and our wholly owned, majority owned and controlled subsidiaries. Unless the context otherwise indicates, the terms “Albemarle,” “we,” “us,” “our” or “the Company” mean Albemarle Corporation and our consolidated subsidiaries. We apply the equity method of accounting for investments in which we have an ownership interest from 20% to 50% or where we exercise significant influence over the related investee’s operations. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.
	Organizational Realignment
	Effective January 1, 2014, the Company’s assets and businesses were realigned under two operating segments. The Performance Chemicals segment includes the Fire Safety Solutions, Specialty Chemicals and Fine Chemistry Services product categories, and the Catalyst Solutions segment includes the Refinery Catalyst Solutions and Performance Catalyst Solutions product categories. Throughout this document, including these consolidated financial statements and related footnotes, current and prior year financial information is presented as if there were only two reporting segments for all periods presented.
	Recast of Financial Information for Discontinued Operations
	On April 15, 2014, the Company signed a definitive agreement to sell its antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets to SI Group, Inc. for an undisclosed amount of cash. In the second quarter of 2014, the Company began accounting for these assets as held for sale. The Company has recast certain historical information to reflect the results of operations of the disposal group as discontinued operations for all periods presented, including the consolidated statements of income and throughout the document. Long-lived assets and asset groups are classified as held for sale and reported as discontinued operations in the periods in which the specific criteria are met in accordance with applicable accounting standards.
	A summary of results of discontinued operations is as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Net sales	$	222,146	$	226,266	$	217,338
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations	$	5,985	$	6,381	$	(1,954	)
	Income tax expense	1,877		2,100		(337		)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)	$	4,108	$	4,281	$	(1,617	)
	Estimates, Assumptions and Reclassifications
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in the United States (U.S.) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
	Certain amounts in the accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes thereto have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.
	Revenue Recognition
	We recognize sales when the revenue is realized or realizable, and has been earned, in accordance with authoritative accounting guidance. We recognize net sales as risk and title to the product transfer to the customer, which usually occurs at the time shipment is made. Significant portions of our sales are sold free on board (FOB) shipping point or on an equivalent basis, and other transactions are based upon specific contractual arrangements. Our standard terms of delivery are generally included in our contracts of sale, order confirmation documents and invoices. We recognize revenue from services when performance of the services has been completed. We have a limited amount of consignment sales that are billed to the customer upon monthly notification of amounts used by the customers under these contracts. Where the Company incurs pre-production design and development costs under long-term supply contracts, these costs are expensed where they relate to the products sold unless contractual guarantees for reimbursement exist. Conversely, these costs are capitalized if they pertain to equipment that we will own and use in producing the products to be supplied and expect to utilize for future revenue generating activities.
	Performance and Life Cycle Guarantees
	We provide customers certain performance guarantees and life cycle guarantees. These guarantees entitle the customer to claim compensation if the product does not conform to performance standards originally agreed upon. Performance guarantees relate to minimum technical specifications that products produced with the delivered product must meet, such as yield and product quality. Life cycle guarantees relate to minimum periods for which performance of the delivered product is guaranteed. When either performance guarantees or life cycle guarantees are contractually agreed upon, an assessment of the appropriate revenue recognition treatment is evaluated. When testing or modeling of historical results predict that the performance or life cycle criteria will be satisfied, revenue is recognized in accordance with shipping terms at the time of delivery. When testing or modeling of historical results predict that the performance or life cycle criteria may not be satisfied, we bill the customer upon shipment and defer the related revenue and cost associated with these products. These deferrals are released to earnings when the contractual period expires.
	Shipping and Handling Costs
	Amounts billed to customers in a sales transaction related to shipping and handling have been classified as net sales and the cost incurred by us for shipping and handling has been classified as cost of goods sold in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. In addition, taxes billed to customers in a sales transaction are presented in the consolidated statements of income on a net basis.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents include cash and highly liquid investments with insignificant interest rate risks and original maturities of three months or less.
	Inventories
	Inventories are stated at lower of cost or market with cost determined primarily on the first-in, first-out basis. Cost is determined on the weighted-average basis for a small portion of our inventories at foreign plants and our stores, supplies and other inventory. A portion of our domestic produced finished goods and raw materials are determined on the last-in, first-out basis.
	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Property, plant and equipment include costs of assets constructed, purchased or leased under a capital lease, related delivery and installation costs and interest incurred on significant capital projects during their construction periods. Expenditures for renewals and betterments also are capitalized, but expenditures for normal repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. Costs associated with yearly planned major maintenance are deferred and amortized over 12 months or until the same major maintenance activities must be repeated, whichever is shorter. The cost and accumulated depreciation applicable to assets retired or sold are removed from the respective accounts, and gains or losses thereon are included in income.
	The Company records depreciation and amortization in its consolidated statements of income primarily in Cost of goods sold, with minor amounts also recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses and Research and development expenses depending on the functional utilization of the related assets. Depreciation is computed by the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the assets. We have a policy where our internal engineering group provides asset life guidelines for book purposes. These guidelines are reviewed against the economic life of the business for each project and asset life is determined as the lesser of the manufacturing life or the “business” life. The engineering guidelines are reviewed periodically.
	We evaluate historical and expected undiscounted operating cash flows of our business segments to determine the future recoverability of any property, plant and equipment recorded. Property, plant and equipment is re-evaluated whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable.
	The costs of brine wells, leases and royalty interests are primarily amortized over the estimated average life of the field on a straight-line basis. On a yearly basis for all fields, this approximates a units-of-production method based upon estimated reserves and production volumes.
	Investments
	Investments are accounted for using the equity method of accounting if the investment gives us the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, over the investee. Significant influence is generally deemed to exist if we have an ownership interest in the voting stock of the investee between 20% and 50%, although other factors, such as representation on the investee’s board of directors and the impact of commercial arrangements, are considered in determining whether the equity method of accounting is appropriate. Under the equity method of accounting, we record our investments in equity-method investees in the consolidated balance sheets as Investments and our share of investees’ earnings or losses together with other-than temporary impairments in value as Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments in the consolidated statements of income.
	Certain mutual fund investments are accounted for as trading equities and are marked-to-market on a monthly basis through the consolidated statements of income. Investments in joint ventures and nonmarketable securities of immaterial entities are estimated based upon the overall performance of the entity where financial results are not available on a timely basis.
	Environmental Compliance and Remediation
	Environmental compliance costs include the cost of purchasing and/or constructing assets to prevent, limit and/or control pollution or to monitor the environmental status at various locations. These costs are capitalized and depreciated based on estimated useful lives. Environmental compliance costs also include maintenance and operating costs with respect to pollution prevention and control facilities and other administrative costs. Such operating costs are expensed as incurred. Environmental remediation costs of facilities used in current operations are generally immaterial and are expensed as incurred. On an undiscounted basis, we accrue for environmental remediation costs and post-remediation costs that relate to existing conditions caused by past operations at facilities or off-plant disposal sites in the accounting period in which responsibility is established and when the related costs are estimable. In developing these cost estimates, we evaluate currently available facts regarding each site, with consideration given to existing technology, presently enacted laws and regulations, prior experience in remediation of contaminated sites, the financial capability of other potentially responsible parties and other factors, subject to uncertainties inherent in the estimation process. Additionally, these estimates are reviewed periodically, with adjustments to the accruals recorded as necessary.
	Research and Development Expenses
	Our research and development expenses related to present and future products are expensed as incurred. These expenses consist primarily of personnel-related costs and other overheads, as well as outside service and consulting costs incurred for specific programs. Our U.S. facilities in Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas and Louisiana and our global facilities in the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, China and Korea form the capability base for our contract research and custom manufacturing businesses. These business areas provide research and scale-up services primarily to innovative life science companies.
	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	We account for goodwill and other intangibles acquired in a business combination in conformity with current accounting guidance that requires that goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets not be amortized.
	We test goodwill for impairment by comparing the estimated fair value of our reporting units to the related carrying value. We estimate the fair value based on present value techniques involving future cash flows. Future cash flows include assumptions for sales volumes, selling prices, raw material prices, labor and other employee benefit costs, capital additions and other economic or market related factors. Significant management judgment is involved in estimating these variables and they include inherent uncertainties since they are forecasting future events. We use a Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) approach to determine our discount rate for goodwill recoverability testing. Our WACC calculation incorporates industry-weighted average returns on debt and equity from a market perspective. The factors in this calculation are largely external to our company, and therefore, are beyond our control. We test our recorded goodwill balances for impairment in the fourth quarter of each year or upon the occurrence of events or changes in circumstances that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting units below their carrying amounts. The Company performed its annual goodwill impairment test as of October 31, 2013 and concluded there was no impairment as of that date.
	Definite-lived intangible assets, such as purchased technology, patents, customer lists and trade names are amortized over their estimated useful lives, generally for periods ranging from five to forty years. We continually evaluate the reasonableness of the useful lives of these assets and test for impairment in accordance with current accounting guidance. See Note 10, “Goodwill and Other Intangibles.”
	Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits
	Under authoritative accounting standards, assumptions are made regarding the valuation of benefit obligations and the performance of plan assets. As required, we recognize a balance sheet asset or liability for each of the pension and other postretirement benefit (OPEB) plans equal to the plan’s funded status as of the measurement date. The primary assumptions are as follows:
	•	Discount Rate—The discount rate is used in calculating the present value of benefits, which is based on projections of benefit payments to be made in the future.
	•	Expected Return on Plan Assets—We project the future return on plan assets based on prior performance and future expectations for the types of investments held by the plans, as well as the expected long-term allocation of plan assets for these investments. These projected returns reduce the net benefit costs recorded currently.
	•	Rate of Compensation Increase—For salary-related plans, we project employees’ annual pay increases, which are used to project employees’ pension benefits at retirement.
	•	Rate of Increase in the Per Capita Cost of Covered Health Care Benefits—Eligible retirees receive fully insured medical benefits with the Company providing a cost sharing benefit subject to a cap. The pre-65 and post-65 caps were fully met as of January 1, 2013 and we do not anticipate increases in the cost sharing caps.
	Actuarial gains and losses are recognized annually in our consolidated statements of income in the fourth quarter and whenever a plan is determined to qualify for a remeasurement during a fiscal year. The remaining components of pension and OPEB plan expense, primarily service cost, interest cost and expected return on assets, are recorded on a quarterly basis. The market-related value of assets equals the actual market value as of the date of measurement.
	During 2013, we made changes to the assumptions related to the discount rate, expected return on assets, and mortality scales. We consider available information that we deem relevant when selecting each of these assumptions.
	In selecting the discount rates for the U.S. plans, we consider expected benefit payments on a plan-by-plan basis. As a result, the Company uses different discount rates for each plan depending on the demographics of participants and the expected timing of benefit payments. For 2013, the discount rates were calculated using the results from a bond matching technique developed by Milliman, which matched the future estimated annual benefit payments of each respective plan against a portfolio of bonds of high quality to determine the discount rate. We believe our selected discount rates are determined using preferred methodology under authoritative accounting guidance and accurately reflect market conditions as of the December 31, 2013 measurement date.
	In selecting the discount rates for the foreign plans, we relied on Aon Hewitt methods, including the Aon Hewitt Top-Quartile and a yield curve derived from fixed-income security yields. The yield curve is generally based on a universe containing Aa-graded corporate bonds in the Euro zone without special features or options, which could affect the duration. In some countries, the yield curve is based on local government bond rates with a premium added to reflect corporate bond risk. Payments we expect to be made from our retirement plans are applied to the resulting yield curve. For each plan, the discount rate was developed as the level equivalent rate that would produce the same present value as that using spot rates aligned with the projected benefit payments.
	In estimating the expected return on plan assets, we consider past performance and future expectations for the types of investments held by the plan as well as the expected long-term allocation of plan assets to these investments. In projecting the rate of compensation increase, we consider past experience in light of movements in inflation rates.
	Employee Savings Plans
	Certain of our employees participate in our defined contribution 401(k) employee savings plan, which is generally available to all U.S. full-time salaried and non-union hourly employees and to employees who are covered by a collective bargaining agreement that provides for such participation. With respect to our foreign subsidiaries, we have a plan in the Netherlands similar to a collective defined contribution plan.
	Deferred Compensation Plan
	We maintain an Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (EDCP) that was adopted in 2001 and subsequently amended. The purpose of the EDCP is to provide current tax planning opportunities as well as supplemental funds upon the retirement or death of certain of our employees. The EDCP is intended to aid in attracting and retaining employees of exceptional ability by providing them with these benefits. We also maintain a Benefit Protection Trust (the Trust) that was created to provide a source of funds to assist in meeting the obligations of the EDCP, subject to the claims of our creditors in the event of our insolvency. Assets of the Trust are consolidated in accordance with authoritative guidance. The assets of the Trust consist primarily of mutual fund investments (which are accounted for as trading securities and are marked-to-market on a monthly basis through the consolidated statement of income) and cash and cash equivalents.
	Stock-based Compensation Expense
	The fair value of restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards and performance unit awards is determined based on the number of shares or units granted and the quoted price of our common stock at grant date, and the fair value of stock options is determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value of these awards is determined after giving effect to estimated forfeitures. Such value is recognized as expense over the service period, which is generally the vesting period of the equity grant. To the extent restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards, performance unit awards and stock options are forfeited prior to vesting in excess of the estimated forfeiture rate, the corresponding previously recognized expense is reversed as an offset to operating expenses.
	Income Taxes
	We use the liability method for determining our income taxes, under which current and deferred tax liabilities and assets are recorded in accordance with enacted tax laws and rates. Under this method, the amounts of deferred tax liabilities and assets at the end of each period are determined using the tax rate expected to be in effect when taxes are actually paid or recovered. Future tax benefits are recognized to the extent that realization of such benefits is more likely than not.
	Deferred income taxes are provided for the estimated income tax effect of temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of existing assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets are also provided for operating losses, capital losses and certain tax credit carryovers. A valuation allowance, reducing deferred tax assets, is established when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The realization of such deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of sufficient future taxable income of the appropriate character. Although realization is not assured, we do not establish a valuation allowance when we believe it is more likely than not that a net deferred tax asset will be realized.
We only recognize a tax benefit after concluding that it is more likely than not that the benefit will be sustained upon audit by the respective taxing authority based solely on the technical merits of the associated tax position. Once the recognition threshold is met, we recognize a tax benefit measured as the largest amount of the tax benefit that, in our judgment, is greater than 50% likely to be realized. Interest and penalties related to income tax liabilities under current accounting guidance for uncertain tax positions are included in income tax expense.
We have designated the undistributed earnings of substantially all of our foreign operations as indefinitely invested and as a result we do not provide for deferred income taxes on the unremitted earnings of these subsidiaries. Our foreign earnings are computed under U.S. federal tax earnings and profits, or E&P, principles. In general, to the extent our financial reporting book basis over tax basis of a foreign subsidiary exceeds these E&P amounts, deferred taxes have not been provided as they are essentially permanent in duration. The determination of the amount of such unrecognized deferred tax liability is not practicable. We provide for deferred income taxes on our undistributed earnings of foreign operations that are not deemed to be indefinitely invested.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Accumulated other comprehensive income is comprised principally of foreign currency translation adjustments and net prior service benefit for our defined benefit plans and related deferred income taxes in accordance with current accounting guidance.
Foreign Currency Translation
The assets and liabilities of all foreign subsidiaries were prepared in their respective functional currencies and translated into U.S. Dollars based on the current exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet dates, while income and expenses were translated at average exchange rates for the periods presented. Translation adjustments are reflected as a separate component of equity.
Our consolidated statements of income include foreign exchange transaction losses of $10.6 million, $4.9 million and $3.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Derivative Financial Instruments
We manage our foreign currency exposures by balancing certain assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies and through the use of foreign currency forward contracts from time to time, which generally expire within one year. The principal objective of such contracts is to minimize the financial risks and costs associated with global operating activities. While these contracts are subject to fluctuations in value, such fluctuations are generally expected to be offset by fluctuations in the value of the underlying foreign currency exposures being hedged. Gains and losses on foreign currency forward contracts are recognized currently in income, but generally do not have a significant impact on results of operations.
The counterparties to these contractual agreements are major financial institutions with which we generally have other financial relationships. We are exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by these counterparties. However, we do not anticipate nonperformance by the counterparties. We do not utilize financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, we had outstanding foreign currency forward contracts with notional values totaling $321.4 million and $274.0 million, respectively.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In December 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued accounting guidance that requires entities to disclose information about financial instruments (including derivatives) and transactions eligible for offset in the statement of financial position or subject to an agreement similar to a master netting arrangement. In January 2013, the FASB issued additional guidance that limits the scope of these new requirements to certain derivatives, repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowing and lending transactions. These amendments became effective on January 1, 2013 and had no impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In February 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance that requires companies to present either in a single note or on the face of the financial statements the effect of significant amounts reclassified from each component of accumulated other comprehensive income, and the income statement line items affected by the reclassification. If a component is not required to be reclassified to net income in its entirety, companies would instead cross reference to the related footnote for additional information. These amendments became effective for us beginning with the first quarter of 2013 and did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In February 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance that requires entities that have obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements and for which the total amount is fixed at the reporting date to measure such obligations as the sum of (a) the amount the entity agreed to pay on the basis of its arrangement among its co-obligors, and (b) any additional amount the reporting entity expects to pay on behalf of its co-obligors. Entities are also required to disclose the nature, amount and any other relevant information about such obligations. This accounting guidance will become effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013 and should be applied retrospectively to all prior periods presented for obligations that exist at the beginning of an entity’s fiscal year of adoption. We do not expect this new guidance to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.
In March 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance that clarifies a parent company’s accounting for the cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment when the parent sells a part or all of its investment in a foreign entity. The guidance clarifies that the sale of an investment in a foreign entity includes both (a) events that result in the loss of a controlling financial interest in a foreign entity, and (b) events that result in an acquirer obtaining control of an acquiree in which it held an equity interest immediately before the acquisition date (sometimes also referred to as a step acquisition). Accordingly, the cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment should be released into net income upon the occurrence of those events. This accounting guidance will become effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013, and should be applied prospectively to derecognition events occurring after the effective date. The impact of these new requirements on our financial statements will depend upon the nature, terms and size of derecognition events, if any, that may occur in the future related to any of our foreign entities.
In July 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance designed to reduce diversity in practice of financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. These new requirements become effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. We do not expect this new guidance to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Cash Flow Information	'
	Supplemental Cash Flow Information:
	Supplemental information related to the consolidated statements of cash flows is as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012			2011
	Cash paid during the year for:
	Income taxes (net of refunds of $14,296, $1,849 and $4,339	$	51,772	$	112,442		$	123,341
	in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively)
	Interest (net of capitalization)	$	29,629	$	31,144		$	33,127
	Supplemental non-cash disclosures related to exit of phosphorus
	flame retardants business:
	Decrease in property, plant and equipment	$	—	$	(41,120	)	$	—
	Decrease in accumulated depreciation	—		(17,870		)	—
	Decrease in other intangibles, net of amortization	—		(27,384		)	—
	Increase in accumulated other comprehensive income	—		12,268			—
	Supplemental non-cash disclosures related to defined benefit
	pension plan net curtailment gain:
	Decrease in accumulated other comprehensive income	$	—	$	(4,507	)	$	—
	Supplemental non-cash disclosures related to other restructuring
	charges:
	Decrease in property, plant and equipment	$	—	$	(5,002	)	$	—
	Decrease in accumulated depreciation	—		(1,588		)	—

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share	'
	Earnings Per Share:
	Basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations are calculated as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Basic earnings per share from continuing operations
	Numerator:
	Net income from continuing operations	$	435,726		$	325,846		$	421,814
	Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests	(26,663		)	(18,591		)	(28,083		)
	Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$	409,063		$	307,255		$	393,731
	Denominator:
	Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share	83,839			89,189			90,522
	Basic earnings per share from continuing operations	$	4.88		$	3.44		$	4.35
	Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations
	Numerator:
	Net income from continuing operations	$	435,726		$	325,846		$	421,814
	Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests	(26,663		)	(18,591		)	(28,083		)
	Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$	409,063		$	307,255		$	393,731
	Denominator:
	Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share	83,839			89,189			90,522
	Incremental shares under stock compensation plans	483			695			1,000
	Total shares	84,322			89,884			91,522
	Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations	$	4.85		$	3.42		$	4.3
	The Company’s policy on how to determine windfalls and shortfalls for purposes of calculating assumed stock award proceeds under the treasury stock method when determining the denominator for diluted earnings per share is to exclude the impact of pro forma deferred tax assets (i.e. the windfall or shortfall that would be recognized in the financial statements upon exercise of the award). At December 31, 2013, there were 468,120 common stock equivalents not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share.
	Included in the calculation of basic earnings per share are unvested restricted stock awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends. At December 31, 2013, there were 13,133 unvested shares of restricted stock awards outstanding.
	We have the authority to issue 15 million shares of preferred stock in one or more classes or series. As of December 31, 2013, no shares of preferred stock have been issued.
	On October 13, 2011, our Board of Directors authorized an increase in the number of shares the Company is permitted to repurchase under our share repurchase program up to a maximum of five million shares. On February 12, 2013, our Board of Directors authorized another increase in the number of shares the Company is permitted to repurchase under our share repurchase program, pursuant to which the Company is now permitted to repurchase up to a maximum of 15 million shares, including those shares previously authorized but not yet repurchased.
	Under the existing Board authorized share repurchase program, on May 9, 2013, the Company entered into an accelerated share repurchase agreement with J.P. Morgan Securities LLC (JPMorgan) relating to a fixed-dollar, uncollared accelerated share repurchase program. Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, JPMorgan immediately borrowed shares of Albemarle common stock that were sold to the Company, thereby decreasing the Company’s issued and outstanding shares (with no change to its authorized shares). On May 10, 2013, the Company paid $450 million to JPMorgan and received an initial delivery of 5,680,921 shares with a fair market value of approximately $360 million. This purchase was funded through a combination of available cash on hand and debt. The Company determined that the accelerated share repurchase agreement met the criteria to be accounted for as a forward contract indexed to its stock and was therefore treated as an equity instrument. Under the terms of the agreement, on December 19, 2013, the transaction was completed and we received a final settlement of 1,384,011 shares, calculated based on the daily Rule 10b-18 volume-weighted average prices of the Company’s common stock over the term of the agreement, less a forward price adjustment amount of approximately $1.01. The total number of shares repurchased under this agreement (7,064,932 shares) reduced the Company’s weighted average shares outstanding for purposes of calculating basic and diluted earnings per share during the year ended December 31, 2013.
	During the year ended December 31, 2013, we repurchased a total of 9,198,056 shares of our common stock pursuant to the terms of our share repurchase program and the accelerated share repurchase agreement. During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, we repurchased 1,092,767 and 3,000,000 shares of our common stock, respectively, pursuant to the terms of our share repurchase program. As of December 31, 2013, there were 5,939,594 remaining shares available for repurchase under our authorized share repurchase program.
	On February 3, 2014, we entered into an accelerated share repurchase agreement with Merrill Lynch International (“Merrill Lynch”), acting through its agent Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner and Smith Incorporated, relating to a fixed-dollar, uncollared accelerated share repurchase program pursuant to which we will purchase $50 million of our shares from Merrill Lynch. The shares will be purchased by Merrill Lynch in two $25 million tranches that may be settled separately or simultaneously. Pursuant to the terms of this agreement, Merrill Lynch immediately borrowed shares of Albemarle common stock that were sold to the Company, thereby decreasing the Company’s issued and outstanding shares (with no change to its authorized shares). On February 3, 2014, we paid $50 million to Merrill Lynch and received an initial delivery of 623,248 shares of our common stock with a fair market value of approximately $40 million. This purchase was funded with cash on hand. Although the agreement can be settled, at the Company’s option, in cash or in shares of common stock, the Company intends to settle in shares of common stock. The total number of shares to ultimately be purchased under the agreement will be determined at the completion of the trade and will generally be based on the daily Rule 10b-18 volume-weighted average prices of the Company’s common stock over the term of the agreement, less a forward price adjustment amount of approximately $0.77. Final settlement may be accelerated, and the number of shares to be delivered upon final settlement may be adjusted upon the announcement or occurrence of certain corporate events, including without limitation, tender offers, delisting, merger events or insolvency. The agreement will be terminated at any time that our share price is at or below $30 per share. No more than 1.5 million shares can be repurchased under this program, and this program is expected to be completed by the end of April 2014.

Other_Accounts_Receivable

Other Accounts Receivable	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Receivables [Abstract]	'
Other Accounts Receivable	'
	Other Accounts Receivable:
	Other accounts receivable consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Value added tax/consumption tax	$	21,956	$	22,398
	Other	23,138		21,446
	Total	$	45,094	$	43,844

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
	Inventories:
	Approximately 28% and 30% of our inventories are valued using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The portion of our domestic inventories stated on the LIFO basis amounted to $121.9 million and $126.6 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which are below replacement cost by approximately $41.7 million and $51.4 million, respectively.

Other_Current_Assets

Other Current Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Other Assets [Abstract]	'
Other Current Assets	'
	Other Current Assets:
	Other current assets consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
			December 31,
			2013		2012
	Deferred income taxes—current(a)		$	3,912	$	4,197
	Income tax receivables		26,310		26,208
	Prepaid expenses		47,447		48,250
	Total		$	77,669	$	78,655
	(a)	See Note 18, “Income Taxes.”

Property_Plant_and_Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
	Property, Plant and Equipment:
	Property, plant and equipment, at cost, consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
			Useful	December 31,
			Lives
			(Years)	2013		2012
	Land		—	$	63,153	$	61,123
	Land improvements		5 – 30	52,452		51,218
	Buildings and improvements		10 – 45	235,929		198,260
	Machinery and equipment(a)		2 – 19	1,731,247		1,603,533
	Machinery and equipment (major plant components)(b)		20 – 45	688,284		586,433
	Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs		7 – 60	85,514		83,089
	Construction in progress		—	115,505		234,948
	Total			$	2,972,084	$	2,818,604
	(a)	Consists primarily of (1) short-lived production equipment components, office and building equipment and other equipment with estimated lives ranging 2 – 7 years, and (2) production process equipment (intermediate components) with estimated lives ranging 8 – 19 years.
	(b)	Consists primarily of (1) production process equipment (major unit components) with estimated lives ranging 20 – 29 years, and (2) production process equipment (infrastructure and other) with estimated lives ranging 30 – 45 years.
	The cost of property, plant and equipment is depreciated generally by the straight-line method. Depreciation expense amounted to $99.3 million, $88.3 million and $83.6 million during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Depreciation expense related to discontinued operations was $8.6 million, $8.7 million and $8.0 million during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Interest capitalized on significant capital projects in 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $6.1 million, $5.8 million and $2.4 million, respectively.
	In 2012 we announced our plan to exit the phosphorus flame retardants business, whose products were sourced mainly at our Avonmouth, United Kingdom and Nanjing, China manufacturing sites. In connection with our exit of this business, net property, plant and equipment was written down by $30.9 million, and in the fourth quarter of 2012 we received cash proceeds of $7.7 million from the sale of our Nanjing, China manufacturing site, which resulted in the recognition of a gain of approximately $2 million. See Note 2 “Supplemental Cash Flow Information” and Note 19 “Special Items” for additional details about our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business.
	In the fourth quarter of 2012, we received proceeds of $1.9 million in connection with the sale of land adjacent to our regional offices in Belgium.
	In the third quarter of 2010, we purchased certain property and equipment in Yeosu, South Korea in connection with our plans for building a metallocene polyolefin catalyst and trimethyl gallium manufacturing facility. Cash payments related to this acquisition were $6.5 million in 2011.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments [Abstract]	'
Investments	'
	Investments:
	Investments include our share of unconsolidated joint ventures, nonmarketable securities and marketable equity securities. The following table details our investment balances at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands).
		December 31,
		2013			2012
	Joint ventures	$	187,843		$	185,928
	Nonmarketable securities	534			923
	Marketable equity securities	23,801			20,290
	Total	$	212,178		$	207,141
	Our ownership positions in significant unconsolidated investments are shown below:
			December 31,
			2013		2012		2011
	*	Nippon Aluminum Alkyls - a joint venture with Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. that produces	50	%	50	%	50	%
		aluminum alkyls
	*	Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG - a joint venture with Radex Heraklith	50	%	50	%	50	%
		Industriebeteiligung AG that produces specialty magnesium hydroxide products
	*	Nippon Ketjen Company Limited - a joint venture with Sumitomo Metal Mining	50	%	50	%	50	%
		Company Limited that produces refinery catalysts
	*	Eurecat S.A. - a joint venture with IFP Investissements for refinery catalysts	50	%	50	%	50	%
		regeneration services
	*	Fábrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A. - a joint venture with Petrobras Quimica S.A. -	50	%	50	%	50	%
		PETROQUISA that produces catalysts and includes catalysts research and product
		development activities
	*	Stannica, LLC - a joint venture with PMC Group, Inc. that produces tin stabilizers	50	%	50	%	50	%
	Our investment in the significant unconsolidated joint ventures above amounted to $172.9 million and $170.6 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and the amount included in Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income totaled $31.5 million, $37.0 million and $43.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Undistributed earnings attributable to our significant unconsolidated investments represented approximately $117.1 million and $106.1 million of our consolidated retained earnings at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. All of the unconsolidated joint ventures in which we have investments are private companies and accordingly do not have a quoted market price available.
	The following summary lists our assets, liabilities and results of operations for our significant unconsolidated joint ventures presented herein (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013			2012
	Summary of Balance Sheet Information:
	Current assets	$	313,446		$	343,129
	Noncurrent assets	198,776			212,587
	Total assets	$	512,222		$	555,716
	Current liabilities	$	100,469		$	129,105
	Noncurrent liabilities	77,734			76,422
	Total liabilities	$	178,203		$	205,527
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Summary of Statements of Income Information:
	Net sales	$	598,459		$	601,233		$	672,859
	Gross profit	$	169,406		$	165,650		$	189,691
	Income before income taxes	$	101,652		$	105,329		$	132,399
	Net income	$	71,294		$	71,561		$	88,414
	We have evaluated each of the unconsolidated investments pursuant to current accounting guidance and none qualify for consolidation. Dividends received from our significant unconsolidated investments were $20.5 million, $25.6 million and $22.8 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the carrying amount of our investments in unconsolidated joint ventures exceeded the amount of underlying equity in net assets by approximately $8.4 million and $12.1 million, respectively. These amounts represent the differences between the value of certain assets of the joint ventures and our related valuation on a U.S. GAAP basis. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, $1.4 million and $1.8 million, respectively, remained to be amortized over the remaining useful lives of the assets with the balance of the difference representing primarily our share of the joint ventures’ goodwill.
	The carrying value of our unconsolidated investment in Stannica LLC, a variable interest entity for which we are not the primary beneficiary, was $5.5 million and $6.6 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Our maximum exposure to loss in connection with our continuing involvement with Stannica LLC is limited to our investment carrying value.
	Assets of the Benefit Protection Trust, in conjunction with our EDCP, are accounted for as trading securities in accordance with authoritative accounting guidance. The assets of the Trust consist primarily of mutual fund investments and are marked-to-market on a monthly basis through the consolidated statements of income. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, these marketable securities amounted to $23.0 million and $20.3 million, respectively.
	During the year ended December 31, 2012, we and our joint venture partner each advanced $22.5 million to our 50%-owned joint venture, Saudi Organometallic Chemicals Company (SOCC), pursuant to a long-term loan arrangement. Our loan bears quarterly interest at the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus 1.275% per annum (1.52% and 1.58% as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively), with interest receivable on a semi-annual basis on January 1 and July 1. Principal repayments on amounts outstanding under this arrangement are required as mutually agreed upon by the joint venture partners, but with any outstanding balances receivable in full no later than December 31, 2021. This loan receivable outstanding has been recorded in Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2013 and 2012. The recorded value of this receivable approximates fair value as it bears interest based on prevailing variable market rates. Also during the year ended December 31, 2012, we and our joint venture partner each advanced 1.9 million Euros (approximately $2.6 million and $2.5 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively) to our 50%-owned joint venture, Eurecat S.A., pursuant to a long-term loan arrangement. During the year ended December 31, 2011, we made a capital contribution of $10.9 million to SOCC.

Other_Assets

Other Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]	'
Other Assets	'
	Other Assets:
	Other assets consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
			December 31,
			2013		2012
	Deferred income taxes—noncurrent(a)		$	65,667	$	64,512
	Assets related to unrecognized tax benefits(a)		25,730		25,788
	Long-term advances to joint ventures(b)		25,124		25,017
	Other		43,708		39,519
	Total		$	160,229	$	154,836
	(a)	See Note 18, “Income Taxes.”
	(b)	See Note 8, “Investments.”

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Goodwill and Other Intangibles	'
	Goodwill and Other Intangibles:
	Goodwill and other intangibles consist principally of goodwill, customer lists, trade names, patents and other intangibles.
	The following table summarizes the changes in goodwill by operating segment for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		Performance Chemicals			Catalyst Solutions			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	43,098		$	230,047		$	273,145
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	421			3,400			3,821
	Balance at December 31, 2012	43,519			233,447			276,966
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	84			7,153			7,237
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	43,603		$	240,600		$	284,203
	Other intangibles consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		Customer			Trade			Patents			Land Use			Manufacturing			Other			Total
		Lists and			Names(c)			and			Rights			Contracts and
		Relationships						Technology						Supply/Service
														Agreements
	Gross Asset Value
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	100,078		$	45,399		$	45,973		$	8,098		$	13,782		$	24,161		$	237,491
	Acquisitions(a)	—			—			1,500			—			—			—			1,500
	Exit of phosphorus flame retardants	(16,189		)	(19,441		)	—			(1,915		)	(5,470		)	(1,122		)	(44,137		)
	business(b)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	1,278			985			403			20			211			373			3,270
	and other
	Balance at December 31, 2012	85,167			26,943			47,876			6,203			8,523			23,412			198,124
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	1,259			(36		)	867			173			(185		)	216			2,294
	and other
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	86,426		$	26,907		$	48,743		$	6,376		$	8,338		$	23,628		$	200,418
	Accumulated Amortization
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	(30,281	)	$	(12,220	)	$	(35,212	)	$	(1,118	)	$	(11,113	)	$	(17,266	)	$	(107,210	)
	Amortization	(4,499		)	(1,307		)	(3,176		)	(183		)	(658		)	(900		)	(10,723		)
	Exit of phosphorus flame retardants	4,134			5,791			—			236			5,470			1,122			16,753
	business(b)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	(838		)	(750		)	(390		)	(14		)	(211		)	(277		)	(2,480		)
	and other
	Balance at December 31, 2012	(31,484		)	(8,486		)	(38,778		)	(1,079		)	(6,512		)	(17,321		)	(103,660		)
	Amortization	(4,332		)	(995		)	(797		)	(166		)	(647		)	(1,129		)	(8,066		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	(172		)	511			(779		)	(23		)	185			(211		)	(489		)
	and other
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	(35,988	)	$	(8,970	)	$	(40,354	)	$	(1,268	)	$	(6,974	)	$	(18,661	)	$	(112,215	)
	Net Book Value at December 31, 2012	$	53,683		$	18,457		$	9,098		$	5,124		$	2,011		$	6,091		$	94,464
	Net Book Value at December 31, 2013	$	50,438		$	17,937		$	8,389		$	5,108		$	1,364		$	4,967		$	88,203
	(a)	The increase of $1.5 million in Patents and Technology relates to our acquisition of certain patents in 2012 related to catalysts useful in the production of fuel products from renewable feedstocks.
	(b)	In 2012 we reduced intangible assets by $44.1 million and related accumulated amortization by $16.8 million in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business. See Note 19 “Special Items.”
	(c)	Trade names include a gross carrying amount of $10.3 million for an indefinite-lived intangible asset.
	Useful lives range from 15 – 25 years for customer lists and relationships; 11 – 35 years for trade names; 17 – 20 years for patents and technology; 37 – 40 years for land use rights; 6 – 12 years for manufacturing contracts and supply/service agreements; and 5 – 35 years for other.
	Amortization of other intangibles amounted to $8.1 million, $10.7 million and $13.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Amortization of other intangibles related to discontinued operations was $3.5 million, $3.4 million and $3.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Total estimated amortization expense of other intangibles for the next five fiscal years is as follows (in thousands):
		Estimated
		Amortization
		Expense
	2014	$	8,310
	2015	$	6,554
	2016	$	6,078
	2017	$	5,909
	2018	$	5,711

Accrued_Expenses

Accrued Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]	'
Accrued Expenses	'
	Accrued Expenses:
	Accrued expenses consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
			December 31,
			2013		2012
	Employee benefits, payroll and related taxes		$	41,955	$	39,442
	Taxes other than income taxes and payroll taxes		23,864		25,025
	Deferred revenue		17,896		13,955
	Accrued sales commissions		7,241		7,893
	Accrued interest payable		7,716		7,816
	Accrued utilities		8,608		9,108
	Reduction in force accruals(a)		39,104		14,428
	Other		44,149		59,879
	Total		$	190,533	$	177,546
	(a)	See Note 19, “Special Items.”

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Long-Term Debt	'
	Long-Term Debt:
	Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	5.10% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $36 at December 31, 2013	$	324,964	$	324,930
	and $70 at December 31, 2012
	4.50% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $2,186 at December 31, 2013	347,814		347,500
	and $2,500 at December 31, 2012
	Commercial paper notes	363,000		—
	Fixed rate foreign borrowings	7,879		19,458
	Variable-rate foreign bank loans	34,910		7,006
	Miscellaneous	297		394
	Total long-term debt	1,078,864		699,288
	Less amounts due within one year	24,554		12,700
	Long-term debt, less current portion	$	1,054,310	$	686,588
	Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt as of December 31, 2013 are as follows (in millions): 2014—$24.6; 2015—$327.1; 2016—$379.4; 2017—$0.0; 2018—$0.0; thereafter—$350.0.
	On February 7, 2014, we entered into a new $750.0 million credit facility. The five-year, revolving, unsecured credit agreement (hereinafter referred to as the February 2014 credit agreement) matures on February 7, 2019 and (i) replaces our previous $750.0 million amended and restated credit agreement dated as of September 22, 2011 (the September 2011 credit agreement); (ii) provides for an additional $250.0 million in credit, if needed, subject to the terms of the agreement; and (iii) provides for the ability to extend the maturity date under certain conditions. Borrowings bear interest at variable rates based on the LIBOR for deposits in the relevant currency plus an applicable margin which ranges from 0.900% to 1.500%, depending on the Company’s credit rating from Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (S&P) and Moody’s Investors Services (Moody’s). The applicable margin on the facility was 1.000% as of February 25, 2014. As of February 25, 2014, there were no borrowings outstanding under the February 2014 credit agreement.
	Borrowings under the February 2014 credit agreement are conditioned upon compliance with the following covenants: (i) consolidated funded debt, as defined in the agreement, must be less than or equal to 3.50 times consolidated EBITDA, as defined in the agreement, (which reflects adjustments for certain non-recurring or unusual items such as restructuring charges, facility divestiture charges and other significant non-recurring items), or herein “consolidated adjusted EBITDA,” as of the end of any fiscal quarter; (ii) with the exception of liens specified in our new credit facility, liens may not attach to assets when the aggregate amount of all indebtedness secured by such liens plus unsecured subsidiary indebtedness, other than indebtedness incurred by our subsidiaries under the February 2014 credit agreement, would exceed 20% of consolidated net worth, as defined in the agreement; and (iii) with the exception of indebtedness specified in the February 2014 credit agreement, subsidiary indebtedness may not exceed the difference between 20% of consolidated net worth, as defined in the agreement, and indebtedness secured by liens permitted under the agreement. We believe that as of December 31, 2013, we were, and currently are, in compliance with all of our debt covenants.
	On May 29, 2013, we entered into agreements to initiate a commercial paper program on a private placement basis under which we may issue unsecured commercial paper notes (the “Notes”) from time-to-time up to a maximum aggregate principal amount outstanding at any time of $750.0 million. The proceeds from the issuance of the Notes are expected to be used for general corporate purposes, including the repayment of other debt of the Company. Our February 2014 credit agreement is available to repay the Notes, if necessary. Aggregate borrowings outstanding under the February 2014 credit agreement and the commercial paper program will not exceed the $750.0 million current maximum amount available under the February 2014 credit agreement. The Notes will be sold at a discount from par, or alternatively, will be sold at par and bear interest at rates that will vary based upon market conditions at the time of the issuance of the Notes. The maturities of the Notes will vary but may not exceed 397 days from the date of issue. The definitive documents relating to the Program contain customary representations, warranties, default and indemnification provisions.
	At December 31, 2013, we had $363.0 million of Notes outstanding bearing a weighted-average interest rate of approximately 0.23% and a weighted-average maturity of 21 days. While the outstanding Notes generally have short-term maturities, we classify the Notes as long-term based on our ability and intent to refinance the Notes on a long-term basis through the issuance of additional Notes or borrowings under the February 2014 credit agreement.
	In September 2011, we amended and restated our previous credit facility. Fees and expenses of $2.7 million were incurred and paid in connection with this amendment. Borrowings under the September 2011 credit agreement bore interest at variable rates based on the LIBOR for deposits in the relevant currency plus an applicable margin which ranged from 0.900% to 1.400%, depending on the Company’s credit rating applicable from time to time. The applicable margin on the September 2011 credit agreement was 0.975% as of December 31, 2013. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, we had no borrowings outstanding under the September 2011 credit agreement.
	Our $325.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes, issued on January 20, 2005, bear interest at a rate of 5.10%, payable semi-annually on February 1 and August 1 of each year. The effective interest rate on these senior notes is approximately 5.19%. These senior notes mature on February 1, 2015.
	Our $350.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes, issued on December 10, 2010, bear interest at a rate of 4.50%, payable semi-annually on June 15 and December 15 of each year. The effective interest rate on these senior notes is approximately 4.70%. These senior notes mature on December 15, 2020.
	We have additional agreements with financial institutions that provide for borrowings under uncommitted credit lines up to a maximum of $60.0 million. There were no outstanding borrowings under these agreements at either December 31, 2013 or December 31, 2012. The average interest rate on borrowings under these agreements during 2013, 2012 and 2011was 0.89%, 1.49% and 1.43%, respectively.
	We have an agreement with a foreign bank that provides immediate U.S Dollar or Euro-denominated borrowings under uncommitted credit lines up to a maximum of $48.0 million or the Euro equivalent. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, there were no outstanding borrowings under this agreement.
	One of our foreign subsidiaries has agreements with several foreign banks, which provide immediate borrowings under uncommitted credit lines up to a maximum of 4.5 billion Japanese Yen (approximately $42.8 million at December 31, 2013, based on applicable exchange rates). At December 31, 2013 there were outstanding borrowings of $16.4 million and at December 31, 2012 there were no outstanding borrowings under these agreements. The weighted average interest rate on borrowings under these agreements during 2013 and 2011 was 0.52% and 1.07%, respectively (there were no borrowings in 2012).
	Certain of our remaining foreign subsidiaries have additional agreements with foreign institutions that provide immediate uncommitted credit lines, on a short term basis, up to an aggregate maximum of approximately $93.3 million, of which $80.1 million supports foreign subsidiaries based in China. We have guaranteed these agreements. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, there were no outstanding borrowings under these agreements.
	At December 31, 2013 and 2012, we had the ability and intent to refinance our borrowings under our other existing credit lines with borrowings under the September 2011 credit agreement. Therefore, the amounts outstanding under those credit lines, if any, are classified as long-term debt at December 31, 2013 and 2012. At December 31, 2013, we had the ability to borrow $387.0 million under our commercial paper program and the September 2011 credit agreement, plus an additional $250.0 million if needed, subject to the terms of the September 2011 credit agreement.
	Our consolidated joint venture JBC has foreign currency denominated debt, which amounted to $26.4 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, and principally includes (i) foreign plant-related construction borrowings maturing in April 2015 amounting to $7.9 million and $13.5 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which bore interest at rates ranging from 2.09% to 5.3% at December 31, 2013, (ii) short-term borrowings of $18.5 million at December 31, 2013, bearing interest at 1.59% as of December 31, 2013, and (iii) a $6.0 million unsecured non-interest bearing loan from its other shareholder at December 31, 2012, which was repaid in 2013. At December 31, 2013, JBC had additional borrowing capacity of approximately $6.1 million.
	In anticipation of refinancing our 2015 senior notes in the fourth quarter of 2014, on January 22, 2014, we entered into a pay fixed, receive variable rate forward starting interest rate swap with J.P. Morgan Chase Bank, N.A., to be effective October 15, 2014. Under this swap, we hedged the interest rate and partial credit spread on the 20 future semi-annual coupon payments that we would pay when we refinance our 2015 senior notes with another 10 year note. The notional amount of the swap is $325.0 million and the fixed rate is 3.281%. A cash settlement will occur on the termination date determined by reference to the changes in the U.S. dollar 3-month LIBOR and credit spreads from the date we entered into the swap until the date we terminate the swap. We intend to designate this derivative financial instrument as an effective hedge under Accounting Standards Codification 815, Derivatives and Hedging.

Other_Noncurrent_Liabilities

Other Noncurrent Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Disclosure Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Abstract]	'
Other Noncurrent Liabilities	'
	Other Noncurrent Liabilities:
	Other noncurrent liabilities consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions(a)	$	29,834	$	29,179
	Executive deferred compensation plan obligation	23,030		20,265
	Deferred revenue—long-term	2,444		3,362
	Environmental liabilities(b)	9,213		17,213
	Asset retirement obligations(b)	16,930		16,517
	Other	29,159		27,486
	Total	$	110,610	$	114,022
	(a)	See Note 18, “Income Taxes.”
	(b)	See Note 15, “Commitments and Contingencies.”

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens

Stock-based Compensation Expense	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Stock-based Compensation Expense	'
	Stock-based Compensation Expense:
	Incentive Plans
	We have various share-based compensation plans that authorize the granting of (i) stock options to purchase shares of our common stock, (ii) restricted stock and restricted stock units, (iii) performance unit awards and (iv) stock appreciation rights (SARs) to employees and non-employee directors. The plans provide for payment of incentive awards in one or more of the following at our option: cash, shares of our common stock, qualified and non-qualified stock options, SARs, restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards and performance unit awards. The share-based awards granted by us generally contain vesting provisions ranging from one to five years, and with respect to stock options granted by us, have a term of not more than ten years from the date of grant. Stock options granted to employees generally vest over three years and have a term of ten years. Restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards vest in periods ranging from one to five years from the date of grant. Performance unit awards are earned at a level ranging from zero to 200% contingent upon the achievement of specific performance criteria over periods ranging from one to two years. Distribution of the earned units occurs generally 50% upon completion of a two-year measurement period with the remaining 50% of the earned units distributed one year thereafter.
	We granted 297,924, 263,200 and 401,500 stock options during 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. There were no significant modifications made to any share-based grants during these periods.
	On April 20, 2010, the maximum number of shares available for issuance to participants under the Albemarle Corporation 2008 Incentive Plan (the “Incentive Plan”) increased by 4,470,000 shares to 7,470,000 shares. With respect to any awards, other than stock options or SARs, the number of shares available for awards under the Incentive Plan were reduced by 1.6 shares for each share covered by such award or to which such award related. Effective May 7, 2013, the Albemarle Corporation 2008 Stock Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors and the 1996 Directors’ Deferred Compensation Plan (as amended and restated in 2005) were merged into the Albemarle Corporation 2013 Stock Compensation and Deferral Election Plan for Non-Employee Directors (the “Non-Employee Directors Plan”). Under the Non-Employee Directors Plan, a maximum aggregate number of 500,000 shares of our common stock is authorized for issuance to the Company’s non-employee directors; any shares remaining available for issuance under the prior plans were canceled. The aggregate fair market value of shares that may be issued to a director during any compensation year (as defined in the agreement, generally July 1 to June 30) shall not exceed $150,000. At December 31, 2013, there were 3,587,539 shares available for grant under the Incentive Plan and 485,600 shares available for grant under the Non-Employee Directors Plan.
	Total stock-based compensation expense associated with our incentive plans for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 amounted to $10.2 million, $15.2 million and $27.1 million, respectively, and is included in cost of goods sold and selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses on the consolidated statements of income. Total related recognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 amounted to $3.7 million, $5.6 million and $10.0 million, respectively.
	The following table summarizes information about the Company’s fixed-price stock options as of and for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Shares			Weighted-				Weighted-		Aggregate
					Average				Average		Intrinsic Value
					Exercise				Remaining		(in thousands)
					Price				Contractual
									Term (Years)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012	1,343,261			$	41.78			7.2		$	28,232
	Granted	297,924			65.35
	Exercised	(191,732	)		28.96
	Forfeited	(80,337	)		61.39
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	1,369,116			$	47.55			7		$	22,795
	Exercisable at December 31, 2013	854,031			$	37.86			6		$	21,977
	The fair value of each option granted during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
	Dividend yield	1.58		%		1.59		%		1.53		%
	Volatility	33.55		%		34.04		%		33.04		%
	Average expected life (years)	6				6				6
	Risk-free interest rate	2.18		%		2.05		%		3.67		%
	Fair value of options granted	$	19.73			$	20			$	18.42
	Dividend yield is the average of historical yields and those estimated over the average expected life. The stock volatility is based on historical volatilities of our common stock. The average expected life represents the weighted average period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding giving consideration to vesting schedules and our historical exercise patterns. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury strip rate with stripped coupon interest for the period equal to the contractual term of the share option grant in effect at the time of grant.
	The intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $7.0 million, $37.4 million and $7.9 million, respectively. The intrinsic value of a stock option is the amount by which the market value of the underlying stock exceeds the exercise price of the option.
	Total compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested stock options outstanding as of December 31, 2013 is approximately $6.1 million and is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average period of 2.3 years. Cash proceeds from stock options exercised and tax benefits related to stock options exercised were $5.6 million and $2.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2013, respectively. The Company issues new shares of common stock upon exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted common stock awards.
	The following table summarizes activity in performance unit awards as of and for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Shares			Weighted
					Average
					Grant Date
					Fair Value
					Per Share
	Nonvested, beginning of period	364,100			$	55.94
	Granted	274,621			61.41
	Vested	(228,001	)		49.77
	Forfeited	(39,317	)		62.53
	Nonvested, end of period	371,403			63.08
	The weighted average grant date fair value of performance unit awards granted in 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $16.9 million, $19.7 million and $10.7 million, respectively. Performance units awarded in 2013 include shares with a weighted average grant date fair value of $6.3 million related to awards granted in 2011 that earned at a rate of 200% based upon the achievement of specific performance criteria. Performance units awarded in 2012 include shares with a weighted average grant date fair value of $8.9 million related to awards granted in 2011 and 2010 that earned at a rate of 200% based upon the achievement of specific performance criteria.
	The weighted average fair value of performance unit awards that vested during 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $14.5 million, $18.3 million and $0.2 million, respectively, based on the closing prices of our common stock on the dates of vesting. Total compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested performance unit awards outstanding as of December 31, 2013 is approximately $2.4 million, calculated based on current expectation of specific performance criteria, and is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average period of approximately 1.1 years. Each performance unit represents one share of common stock.
	The following table summarizes activity in non-performance based restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards as of and for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Shares			Weighted
					Average
					Grant Date
					Fair Value
					Per Share
	Nonvested, beginning of period	142,805			$	51.01
	Granted	53,593			63.17
	Vested	(51,416	)		41.48
	Forfeited	(33,787	)		57.46
	Nonvested, end of period	111,195			59.32
	The weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards granted in 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $3.4 million, $2.9 million and $3.7 million, respectively. The weighted average fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards that vested in 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $3.2 million, $7.4 million and $9.4 million, respectively, based on the closing prices of our common stock on the dates of vesting. Total compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested, non-performance based restricted stock and restricted stock units as of December 31, 2013 is approximately $3.4 million and is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average period of 1.6 years. The fair value of the non-performance based restricted stock and restricted stock units was estimated on the date of grant adjusted for a dividend factor, if necessary.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	Commitments and Contingencies:
	In the ordinary course of business, we have commitments in connection with various activities, the most significant of which are as follows:
	Environmental
	We had the following activity in our recorded environmental liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Balance, beginning of year	$	20,322		$	12,359		$	13,806
	Expenditures	(3,013		)	(1,451		)	(1,081		)
	Changes in estimates recorded to earnings and other	(902		)	227			(270		)
	Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	—			8,700			—
	Foreign currency translation	192			487			(96		)
	Balance, end of year	16,599			20,322			12,359
	Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses	7,386			3,109			1,433
	Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities	$	9,213		$	17,213		$	10,926
	The amounts recorded represent our future remediation and other anticipated environmental liabilities. These liabilities typically arise during the normal course of our operational and environmental management activities or at the time of acquisition of the site, and are based on internal analysis as well as input from outside consultants. As evaluations proceed at each relevant site, changes in risk assessment practices, remediation techniques and regulatory requirements can occur, therefore such liability estimates may be adjusted accordingly. The timing and duration of remediation activities at these sites will be determined when evaluations are completed. Although it is difficult to quantify the potential financial impact of these remediation liabilities, management estimates (based on the latest available information) that there is a reasonable possibility that future environmental remediation costs associated with our past operations, in excess of amounts already recorded, could be up to approximately $17 million before income taxes.
	Approximately $7.3 million of our recorded liability is related to the closure and post-closure activities at a former landfill associated with our Bergheim, Germany site, which was recorded at the time of our acquisition of this site in 2001. This closure project has been approved under the authority of the governmental permit for this site and is scheduled for completion in 2017, with post-closure monitoring to occur for 30 years thereafter. The remainder of our recorded liability is associated with sites that are being evaluated under governmental authority but for which final remediation plans have not yet been approved. In connection with the remediation activities at our Bergheim, Germany site as required by the German environmental authorities, we have pledged certain of our land and housing facilities at this site which has an estimated fair value of $6.2 million.
	During the second quarter of 2012, the Company recorded $8.7 million in estimated site remediation liabilities at our Avonmouth, United Kingdom site as part of the charges associated with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardant business. Included in these estimated charges are anticipated costs of site investigation, remediation and cleanup activities. We are in the process of reviewing our investigation and remediation plans with local government authorities. Based on current information about site conditions, we anticipate this investigation and remediation program will be substantially completed during 2014.
	We believe that any sum we may be required to pay in connection with environmental remediation matters in excess of the amounts recorded should occur over a period of time and should not have a material adverse effect upon our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows on a consolidated annual basis although any such sum could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows in a particular quarterly reporting period.
	Rental Expense
	Our rental expenses include a number of operating lease agreements, primarily for office space, transportation equipment and storage facilities. The following schedule details the future non-cancelable minimum lease payments for the next five years and thereafter (in thousands):
		Minimum
		Operating Lease
		Payments
	2014	$	7,232
	2015	$	5,556
	2016	$	4,142
	2017	$	3,351
	2018	$	2,286
	Thereafter	$	6,060
	Rental expense was approximately $30.7 million, $33.1 million, and $30.9 million for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Rental expense related to discontinued operations was approximately $1.6 million, $1.4 million and $1.6 million for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Rental expense is shown net of rental income which was minimal during 2013, 2012 and 2011.
	Litigation
	On July 3, 2006, we received a Notice of Violation (the 2006 NOV) from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 4 (EPA) regarding the implementation of the Pharmaceutical Maximum Achievable Control Technology standards at our plant in Orangeburg, South Carolina. The alleged violations involve (i) the applicability of the specific regulations to certain intermediates manufactured at the plant, (ii) failure to comply with certain reporting requirements, (iii) improper evaluation and testing to properly implement the regulations and (iv) the sufficiency of the leak detection and repair program at the plant. In the second quarter of 2011, the Company was served with a complaint by the EPA in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina, based on the alleged violations set out in the 2006 NOV seeking civil penalties and injunctive relief. The complaint was subsequently amended to add the State of South Carolina as a plaintiff. We intend to vigorously defend this action. Any settlement or finding adverse to us could result in the payment by us of fines, penalties, capital expenditures or some combination thereof. At this time, it is not possible to predict with any certainty the outcome of this litigation or the financial impact which may result therefrom. However, we do not expect any financial impact to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.
	In addition, we are involved from time to time in legal proceedings of types regarded as common in our business, including administrative or judicial proceedings seeking remediation under environmental laws, such as the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, commonly known as CERCLA or Superfund, products liability, breach of contract liability and premises liability litigation. Where appropriate, we may establish financial reserves as estimated by our general counsel for such proceedings. We also maintain insurance to mitigate certain of such risks. Costs for legal services are generally expensed as incurred.
	Other
	The Company has standby letters of credit and guarantees with various financial institutions. The following table summarizes our letters of credit and guarantee agreements (in thousands):
		2014			2015			2016			2017		2018		Thereafter
	Letters of credit and other guarantees	$	12,618		$	3,262		$	328		$	3,839	$	232	$	6,291
	The outstanding letters of credit are primarily related to insurance claim payment guarantees with expiration dates ranging from 2014 to 2022. The majority of the Company’s other guarantees have terms of one year and mainly consist of performance and environmental guarantees, as well as guarantees to customs and port authorities. The guarantees arose during the ordinary course of business.
	We do not have recorded reserves for the letters of credit and guarantees as of December 31, 2013. We are unable to estimate the maximum amount of the potential future liability under guarantees and letters of credit. However, we accrue for any potential loss for which we believe a future payment is probable and a range of loss can be reasonably estimated. We believe our liability under such obligations is immaterial.
	Our estimated asset retirement obligations associated with certain property and equipment were $16.9 million and $16.5 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We have not recognized conditional asset retirement obligations for which a fair value cannot be reasonably estimated in our consolidated financial statements. It is the opinion of our management that the possibility is remote that such conditional asset retirement obligations, when estimable, will have a material adverse impact on our consolidated financial statements based on current costs.
	We currently, and are from time to time, subject to transactional audits in various taxing jurisdictions and to customs audits globally. We do not expect the financial impact of any of these audits to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Equity [Abstract]	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income:
	The components and activity in Accumulated other comprehensive income (net of deferred income taxes) consisted of the following during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
		Foreign			Net			Unrealized			Other			Total
		Currency			Prior Service			Gain (Loss) on
		Translation			Benefit(b)			Marketable
		Adjustments(a)						Securities
	Balance at December 31, 2010	$	69,605		$	6,422		$	(3	)	$	(1,135	)	$	74,889
	Current period change	(17,269		)	(2,156		)	1			257			(19,167		)
	Tax benefit (expense)	3,909			794			(1		)	(95		)	4,607
	Balance at December 31, 2011	56,245			5,060			(3		)	(973		)	60,329
	Current period change	26,846			(6,533		)	(5		)	217			20,525
	Tax benefit (expense)	2,026			2,462			2			(80		)	4,410
	Balance at December 31, 2012	85,117			989			(6		)	(836		)	85,264
	Current period change	29,539			(781		)	(3		)	217			28,972
	Tax benefit (expense)	1,809			279			1			(80		)	2,009
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	116,465		$	487		$	(8	)	$	(699	)	$	116,245
	(a)	Current period change for the year ended December 31, 2012 includes $12.3 million related to a non-cash write-off of foreign currency translation adjustments from Accumulated other comprehensive income in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business (see Note 19) in accordance with current accounting guidance.
	(b)	Current period change for the year ended December 31, 2012 includes $6.5 million related to a supplemental executive retirement plan settlement in connection with the retirement of our former CEO and executive chairman, and ($4.5) million related to various amendments to certain of our U.S. pension and defined contribution plans that were approved by our Board of Directors in the fourth quarter of 2012.
	In accordance with accounting guidance issued by the FASB in February 2013 which became effective for us in the first quarter of 2013 on a prospective basis, below is information about amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
		Foreign			Net			Unrealized			Other			Total
		Currency			Prior Service			Loss on
		Translation			Benefit			Marketable
		Adjustments						Securities
	Accumulated other comprehensive income -	$	85,117		$	989		$	(6	)	$	(836	)	$	85,264
	balance at December 31, 2012
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before	31,704			—			(2		)	—			31,702
	reclassifications
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated	—			(502		)	—			137			(365		)
	other comprehensive income
	Other comprehensive income (loss), net of	31,704			(502		)	(2		)	137			31,337
	tax
	Other comprehensive income attributable to	(356		)	—			—			—			(356		)
	noncontrolling interests
	Accumulated other comprehensive income -	$	116,465		$	487		$	(8	)	$	(699	)	$	116,245
	balance at December 31, 2013

Pension_Plans_and_Other_Postre

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits	'
	Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits:
	We have certain noncontributory defined benefit pension plans covering certain U.S., German, Japanese and the Netherlands employees. We also have a contributory defined benefit plan covering certain Belgian employees. The benefits for these plans are based primarily on compensation and/or years of service. The funding policy for each plan complies with the requirements of relevant governmental laws and regulations. The pension information for all periods presented includes amounts related to salaried and hourly plans.
	During 2009, the U.S. defined benefit pension plans were amended to be in compliance with the Pension Protection Act of 2006 (PPA), which was signed into law on August 16, 2006. This law amended the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) and included new rules regarding methods and assumptions, including measuring the benefit obligation and plan assets, use of interest rate assumptions, mortality tables, valuation date, credit balances for carryover and pre-funded balances, etc.
	Our U.S. defined benefit plan for non-represented employees was closed to new participants effective March 31, 2004. On October 1, 2012, our Board of Directors approved certain plan amendments, such that effective December 31, 2014, no additional benefits shall accrue under this plan and participants’ accrued benefits shall be frozen as of that date. In addition, for participants who retire on or after December 31, 2012 and before December 31, 2013, final average earnings shall be determined as of December 31, 2012. For participants who retire on or after December 31, 2013 and before December 31, 2014, final average earnings shall be determined as of December 31, 2013. And for participants who retire on or after December 31, 2014, final average earnings shall be determined as of December 31, 2014. In addition to freezing the accrued benefits as of December 31, 2014, our Board of Directors also authorized application of a higher benefit formula for calculating accrued benefits in 2013 and 2014 only, as well as including an offset factor that would be applied to accrued benefits earned in 2013 and 2014. In connection with the plan amendments approved on October 1, 2012, we recorded a net curtailment gain of $4.5 million, which is included in Restructuring and other charges, net on our consolidated statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2012.
	On March 31, 2004, a new defined contribution pension plan benefit was adopted under the qualified defined contribution plan for U.S. non-represented employees hired after March 31, 2004. The benefit was an annual contribution to the defined contribution plan based on 5% of eligible employee compensation, which was further amended on January 1, 2007 to increase the annual contributions to 6% or 7% for eligible employees, depending on specified levels of years of service. On October 1, 2012 our Board of Directors approved additional plan amendments, such that effective January 1, 2013, the defined contribution pension plan benefit is expanded to include non-represented employees hired prior to March 31, 2004, and the annual contribution to the defined contribution plan for all participants is based on 5% of eligible employee compensation. Furthermore, our Board of Directors approved a one-time contribution to be made in December 2012 for active participants still in the U.S. defined benefit plan; the one-time contribution, in the amount of $10.1 million, was made into the defined contribution pension plan and into the EDCP for the amount of the one-time contribution that exceeded U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) limits. The employer portion of contributions to our U.S. defined contribution plan amounted to $8.8 million, $14.8 million (including the one-time contribution made in the fourth quarter of 2012) and $4.5 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	We have a defined benefit plan covering employees in the Netherlands. This plan is a transitional arrangement in which benefits are based primarily on employee compensation and/or years of service. This plan is for certain individuals born on or before 1949 whom had a prior agreement, which we elected to honor, in connection with the refinery catalysts business acquisition in 2004.
	Pension coverage for the employees of our other foreign subsidiaries is provided through separate plans. The plans are funded in conformity with the funding requirements of applicable governmental regulations. The pension cost, actuarial present value of benefit obligations and plan assets for all plans are combined in the other pension disclosure information presented.
	The following provides a reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status of the plans, as well as a summary of significant assumptions for our pension benefit plans (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31, 2013						Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Total Pension			Domestic Pension			Total Pension			Domestic Pension
		Benefits			Benefits			Benefits			Benefits
	Change in benefit obligations:
	Benefit obligation at January 1	$	762,395		$	714,158		$	674,665		$	634,184
	Service cost	13,962			12,177			12,741			11,274
	Interest cost	29,883			28,406			31,636			29,843
	Plan amendments	—			—			1,123			1,123
	Actuarial (gain) loss	(88,392		)	(85,774		)	90,336			83,428
	Benefits paid	(41,132		)	(39,630		)	(49,234		)	(45,694		)
	Employee contributions	320			—			294			—
	Foreign exchange loss	1,546			—			834			—
	Benefit obligation at December 31	$	678,582		$	629,337		$	762,395		$	714,158
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at January 1	$	563,303		$	554,179		$	531,105		$	522,408
	Actual return on plan assets	83,853			83,499			62,577			62,167
	Employer contributions	9,790			7,556			18,299			15,298
	Benefits paid	(41,132		)	(39,630		)	(49,234		)	(45,694		)
	Employee contributions	320			—			294			—
	Foreign exchange gain	411			—			262			—
	Fair value of plan assets at December 31	$	616,545		$	605,604		$	563,303		$	554,179
	Funded status at December 31	$	(62,037	)	$	(23,733	)	$	(199,092	)	$	(159,979	)
		31-Dec-13						31-Dec-12
		Total Pension			Domestic Pension			Total Pension			Domestic Pension
		Benefits			Benefits			Benefits			Benefits
	Amounts recognized in consolidated
	balance sheets:
	Current liabilities (accrued expenses)	$	(4,390	)	$	(2,856	)	$	(3,611	)	$	(2,015	)
	Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits)	(57,647		)	(20,877		)	(195,481		)	(157,964		)
	Net pension liability	$	(62,037	)	$	(23,733	)	$	(199,092	)	$	(159,979	)
	Amounts recognized in accumulated other
	comprehensive income:
	Prior service benefit	$	(70	)	$	(441	)	$	(759	)	$	(1,181	)
	Net amount recognized	$	(70	)	$	(441	)	$	(759	)	$	(1,181	)
	Weighted-average assumption
	percentages:
	Discount rate	5		%	5.14		%	4.04		%	4.1		%
	Rate of compensation increase	2.78		%	3.5		%	3.37		%	3.5		%
	The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans was $669.1 million and $738.7 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Postretirement medical benefits and life insurance is provided for certain groups of U.S. retired employees. Medical and life insurance benefit costs have been funded principally on a pay-as-you-go basis. Although the availability of medical coverage after retirement varies for different groups of employees, the majority of employees who retire before becoming eligible for Medicare can continue group coverage by paying a portion of the cost of a monthly premium designed to cover the claims incurred by retired employees subject to a cap on payments allowed. The availability of group coverage for Medicare-eligible retirees also varies by employee group with coverage designed either to supplement or coordinate with Medicare. Retirees generally pay a portion of the cost of the coverage. Plan assets for retiree life insurance are held under an insurance contract and are reserved for retiree life insurance benefits. In 2005, the postretirement medical benefit available to U.S. employees was changed to provide that employees who are under age 50 as of December 31, 2005 would no longer be eligible for a company-paid retiree medical premium subsidy. Employees who are of age 50 and above as of December 31, 2005 and who retire after January 1, 2006 will have their retiree medical premium subsidy capped. Effective January 1, 2008, our medical insurance for certain groups of U.S. retired employees is now insured through a medical carrier.
	The following provides a reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status of the plans, as well as a summary of significant assumptions for our postretirement benefit plans (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012
		Total Other			Total Other
		Postretirement			Postretirement
		Benefits			Benefits
	Change in benefit obligations:
	Benefit obligation at January 1	$	70,787		$	68,935
	Service cost	309			274
	Interest cost	2,764			3,172
	Actuarial (gain) loss	(6,165		)	3,032
	Benefits paid	(4,863		)	(4,626		)
	Benefit obligation at December 31	$	62,832		$	70,787
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at January 1	$	6,611		$	7,681
Actual return on plan assets	368			358
Employer contributions	3,504			3,198
Benefits paid	(4,863		)	(4,626		)
Fair value of plan assets at December 31	$	5,620		$	6,611
Funded status at December 31	$	(57,212	)	$	(64,176	)
	December 31,
	2013			2012
	Total Other			Total Other
	Postretirement			Postretirement
	Benefits			Benefits
Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
Current liabilities (accrued expenses)	$	(3,309	)	$	(3,361	)
Noncurrent liabilities (postretirement benefits)	(53,903		)	(60,815		)
Net postretirement liability	$	(57,212	)	$	(64,176	)
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income:
Prior service benefit	$	(429	)	$	(525	)
Net amount recognized	$	(429	)	$	(525	)
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Discount rate	5.03		%	4		%
Rate of compensation increase	3.5		%	3.5		%
The components of pension benefits (credit) cost are as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ended						Year Ended						Year Ended
	31-Dec-13						31-Dec-12						31-Dec-11
	Total			Domestic			Total			Domestic			Total			Domestic
	Pension			Pension			Pension			Pension			Pension			Pension
	Benefits			Benefits			Benefits			Benefits			Benefits			Benefits
Service cost	$	13,962		$	12,177		$	12,741		$	11,274		$	12,830		$	11,169
Interest cost	29,883			28,406			31,636			29,843			32,933			30,945
Expected return on assets	(39,392		)	(38,975		)	(44,752		)	(44,342		)	(42,186		)	(41,776		)
Actuarial (gain) loss(a)	(132,916		)	(130,297		)	72,550			65,603			88,809			88,091
Amortization of prior service	(689		)	(741		)	(757		)	(812		)	(953		)	(1,009		)
benefit
Total net pension benefits (credit)	$	(129,152	)	$	(129,430	)	$	71,418		$	61,566		$	91,433		$	87,420
cost
Weighted-average assumption
percentages:
Discount rate	4.04		%	4.1		%	5.04		%	5.07		%	5.4		%	5.45		%
Expected return on plan assets	7.2		%	7.25		%	8.19		%	8.25		%	8.19		%	8.25		%
Rate of compensation increase	3.37		%	3.5		%	3.96		%	4.11		%	3.93		%	4.11		%
(a)	In the second quarter of 2013, we identified that our consolidated statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2012 included a correction of $5.8 million (recorded in the second quarter of 2012) for pension plan actuarial gains that related to 2011. This amount was deemed to be not material with respect to our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 and any prior period financial statements.
The estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic pension costs during 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
	Total			Domestic
	Pension			Pension
	Benefits			Benefits
Amortization of prior service benefit	$	(689	)	$	(741	)
The components of postretirement benefits (credit) cost are as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
	Total Other			Total Other			Total Other
	Postretirement			Postretirement			Postretirement
	Benefits			Benefits			Benefits
Service cost	$	309		$	274		$	263
Interest cost	2,764			3,172			3,393
Expected return on assets	(413		)	(488		)	(509		)
Actuarial (gain) loss(a)	(6,120		)	3,161			3,324
Amortization of prior service benefit	(95		)	(95		)	(697		)
Total net postretirement benefits (credit) cost	$	(3,555	)	$	6,024		$	5,774
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Discount rate	4		%	5.1		%	5.3		%
Expected return on plan assets	7		%	7		%	7		%
Rate of compensation increase	3.5		%	4		%	4		%
(a)	In the second quarter of 2013, we identified that our consolidated statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2012 included a correction of $4.4 million (recorded in the second quarter of 2012) for postretirement plan actuarial gains that related to 2011. This amount was deemed to be not material with respect to our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 and any prior period financial statements.
The estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic postretirement costs during 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
	Total Other
	Postretirement
	Benefits
Amortization of prior service benefit	$	(95	)
In estimating the expected return on plan assets, consideration is given to past performance and future performance expectations for the types of investments held by the plan, as well as the expected long-term allocations of plan assets to these investments. For the years 2013 and 2012, the weighted-average expected rate of return on domestic pension plan assets was 7.25% and 8.25%, respectively. The weighted-average expected rate of return on our domestic pension plan assets is 6.91% effective January 1, 2014. The weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets for our OPEB plans was 7.00% during 2013 and 2012. There has been no change to the assumed rate of return on OPEB plan assets effective January 1, 2014. The weighted-average expected rate of return on pension plan assets for foreign plans was 4.35% and 4.50% during 2013 and 2012, respectively.
In projecting the rate of compensation increase, we consider past experience in light of movements in inflation rates. At December 31, 2013, the assumed weighted-average rate of compensation increase changed to 2.78% from 3.37% for the pension plans. The assumed weighted-average rate of compensation increase was 3.50% for the OPEB plans at December 31, 2013 and 2012.
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). The inputs used to measure fair value are classified into the following hierarchy:
Level 1	Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
Level 2	Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, or
	Unadjusted quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or
	Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability
Level 3	Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability
We endeavor to utilize the best available information in measuring fair value. Financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy are deemed to have occurred on the date of the event or change in circumstance that caused the transfer. There were no transfers between Levels 1 and 2 during the year ended December 31, 2013. Investments for which market quotations are readily available are valued at the closing price on the last business day of the year. Listed securities for which no sale was reported on such date are valued at the mean between the last reported bid and asked price. Securities traded in the over-the-counter market are valued at the closing price on the last business day of the year or at bid price. The net asset value of shares or units is based on the quoted market value of the underlying assets. The market value of corporate bonds is based on institutional trading lots and is most often reflective of bid price. Government securities are valued at the mean between bid and ask prices. Holdings in private equity securities are typically valued using the net asset valuations provided by the underlying private investment companies.
The following table sets forth the assets of our pension and postretirement plans that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
	31-Dec-13			Quoted Prices in			Quoted Prices in			Unobservable
				Active Markets			Active Markets			Inputs
				for Identical			for Similar			(Level 3)
				Items			Items
				(Level 1)			(Level 2)
Pension Assets:
Domestic Equity(a)	$	167,627		$	167,627		$	—		$	—
International Equity(b)	70,609			70,609			—			—
Fixed Income(c)	248,095			237,151			10,944			—
Absolute Return(d)	125,137			1,538			—			123,599
Cash	5,077			5,077			—			—
Total Pension Assets	$	616,545		$	482,002		$	10,944		$	123,599
Postretirement Assets:
Fixed Income(c)	$	5,620		$	—		$	5,620		$	—
(a)	Consists primarily of U.S. stock funds that track or are actively managed and measured against the S&P 500 index.
(b)	Consists primarily of an international equity fund which invests in common stocks and other securities whose value is based on an international equity index or an underlying equity security or basket of equity securities.
(c)	Consists primarily of mutual funds that hold debt obligations issued by governments, corporations, municipalities and other borrowers. Also includes insurance policies.
(d)	Consists primarily of funds with holdings in private investment companies. See additional information about the Absolute Return investments below.
The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the plans’ Level 3 assets for the year ended December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
Absolute Return:	Year Ended December 31, 2013
Beginning Balance	$	70,829
Total gains relating to assets sold during the period(a)	994
Total unrealized losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date(a)	(4,511		)
Purchases	76,643
Sales	(20,356		)
Ending Balance	$	123,599
(a)	These gains (losses) are recognized in the consolidated balance sheets and are included as changes in plan assets in the tables above.
The following table sets forth the assets of our pension and postretirement plans that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2012 (in thousands):
	31-Dec-12			Quoted Prices in			Quoted Prices in			Unobservable
				Active Markets			Active Markets			Inputs
				for Identical			for Similar			(Level 3)
				Items			Items
				(Level 1)			(Level 2)
Pension Assets:
Domestic Equity(a)	$	218,145		$	153,465		$	64,680		$	—
International Equity(b)	107,647			18,977			88,670			—
Fixed Income(c)	142,967			51,306			91,661			—
Absolute Return(d)	80,714			9,885			—			70,829
Cash	13,830			13,830			—			—
Total Pension Assets	$	563,303		$	247,463		$	245,011		$	70,829
Postretirement Assets:
Fixed Income(c)	$	6,611		$	—		$	6,611		$	—
(a)	Consists primarily of U.S. equity securities covering a diverse group of companies and U.S. stock funds that primarily track or are actively managed and measured against indices including the S&P 500 and the Russell 2000.
(b)	Consists primarily of international equity funds which include stocks and debt obligations of non-U.S. entities that primarily track or are actively managed and measured against various MSCI indices.
(c)	Consists primarily of fixed income mutual funds, corporate bonds, U.S. Treasury notes, other government securities and insurance policies.
(d)	Consists primarily of funds with holdings in private investment companies. See additional information about the Absolute Return investments below.
The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the plans’ Level 3 assets for the year ended December 31, 2012 (in thousands):
Absolute Return:	Year Ended December 31, 2012
Beginning Balance	$	73,025
Total losses relating to assets sold during the period(a)	(31		)
Total unrealized gains relating to assets still held at the reporting date(a)	2,311
Sales	(4,476		)
Ending Balance	$	70,829
(a)	These gains (losses) are recognized in the consolidated balance sheets and are included as changes in plan assets in the tables above.
The investment objective of the U.S. pension plan assets is preservation of capital while achieving solid returns. Assets should participate in rising markets, with defensive action in declining markets expected to an even greater degree. Target asset allocations include 65% in return enhancement exposure and the remaining 35% in risk management exposure. Depending on market conditions, the broad asset class targets may range up or down by approximately 10%. These asset classes include but are not limited to hedge fund of funds, bonds and other fixed income vehicles, high yield fixed income securities, equities and distressed debt. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, equity securities held by our pension and OPEB plans did not include direct ownership of Albemarle common stock.
Our Absolute Return investments consist primarily of our investments in hedge fund of funds. These are holdings in private investment companies with fair values that are based on significant unobservable inputs including assumptions where there is little, if any, market activity for the investment. Investment managers or fund managers associated with these investments provide valuations of the investments on a monthly basis utilizing the net asset valuation approach for determining fair values. These valuations are reviewed by the Company for reasonableness based on applicable sector, benchmark and company performance to validate the appropriateness of the net asset values as a fair value measurement. Where available, audited financial statements are obtained and reviewed for the investments as support for the manager’s investment valuation. In general, the investment objective of these funds is high risk-adjusted returns with an emphasis on preservation of capital. The investment strategies of each of the funds vary; however, the objective of our Absolute Return investments is complementary to the overall investment objective of our U.S. pension plan assets.
We made contributions to our defined benefit pension and OPEB plans of $13.3 million, $21.6 million and $59.8 million during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Included in contributions for the year ended December 31, 2012 is a contribution of $14.1 million to our supplemental executive retirement plan (SERP) in connection with the retirement of our former CEO and executive chairman. We expect contributions to our domestic nonqualified and foreign qualified and nonqualified pension plans to approximate $5 million in 2014. Also, we expect to pay approximately $3 million in premiums to our U.S. postretirement benefit plan in 2014. However, we may choose to make additional voluntary pension contributions in excess of these amounts.
The current forecast of benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, amounts to (in millions):
	Total			Domestic			Total
	Pension			Pension			Postretirement
	Benefits			Benefits			Benefits
2014	$	40		$	37.6		$	4.8
2015	$	39.6		$	37.8		$	4.9
2016	$	41.2		$	39.4		$	5
2017	$	43.2		$	40.9		$	4.9
2018	$	46.2		$	44.5		$	4.8
2019-2023	$	236.3		$	223		$	21.4
We have a SERP, which provides unfunded supplemental retirement benefits to certain management or highly compensated employees. The SERP provides for incremental pension benefits to offset the limitations imposed on qualified plan benefits by federal income tax regulations. (Credits) costs relating to our SERP were $(1.5) million, $10.3 million and $4.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The projected benefit obligation for the SERP recognized in the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2013 and 2012 was $21.8 million and $30.9 million, respectively. The benefit expenses and obligations of this SERP are included in the tables above. Benefits of $2.9 million are expected to be paid to SERP retirees in 2014. On October 1, 2012, our Board of Directors approved amendments to the SERP, such that effective December 31, 2014, no additional benefits shall accrue under this plan and participants’ accrued benefits shall be frozen as of that date to reflect the same changes as were made under the U.S. qualified defined benefit plan. For participants who retire on or after December 31, 2012, and before December 31, 2013, final average earnings shall be determined as of December 31, 2012. For participants who retire on or after December 31, 2013 and before December 31, 2014, final average earnings shall be determined as of December 31, 2013. And for participants who retire on or after December 31, 2014, final average earnings shall be determined as of December 31, 2014. In addition to freezing the accrued benefits as of December 31, 2014, our Board of Directors also authorized the application in 2013 and 2014 of the higher benefit formula approved for the U.S. qualified defined benefit plan and an offset factor that will be applied to accrued benefits earned in 2013 and 2014.
At December 31, 2013, the assumed rate of increase in the pre-65 and post-65 per capita cost of covered health care benefits for U.S. retirees was zero as the employer-paid premium caps (pre-65 and post-65) were met starting January 1, 2013.
Employee Savings Plans
Certain of our employees participate in our defined contribution 401(k) employee savings plan, which is generally available to all U.S. full-time salaried and non-union hourly employees and to employees who are covered by a collective bargaining agreement that provides for such participation. This U.S. defined contribution plan is funded with contributions made by the participants and us. Our contributions to the 401(k) plan amounted to $10.6 million, $9.5 million and $9.1 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. We amended our 401(k) plan in 2004 to allow pension contributions to be made by us to participants hired or rehired on or after April 1, 2004 as these participants are not eligible to participate in the Company’s defined benefit pension plan.
In 2006, we formalized a new plan in the Netherlands similar to a collective defined contribution plan. The collective defined contribution plan is supported by annuity contracts through an insurance company. The insurance company unconditionally undertakes the legal obligation to provide specific benefits to specific individuals in return for a fixed amount of premiums. Our obligation under this plan is limited to a variable calculated employer match for each participant plus an additional fixed amount of contributions to assist in covering estimated cost of living and salary increases (indexing) and administrative costs for the overall plan. We paid approximately $10.3 million, $9.5 million and $9.9 million in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, in annual premiums and related costs pertaining to this plan.
Other Postemployment Benefits
Certain postemployment benefits to former or inactive employees who are not retirees are funded on a pay-as-you-go basis. These benefits include salary continuance, severance and disability health care and life insurance, which are accounted for in accordance with authoritative guidance. The accrued postemployment benefit liability was $0.8 million and $0.6 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes:
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments, and current and deferred income tax expense (benefit) are composed of the following (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity
	in net income of unconsolidated investments:
	Domestic	$	351,731			$	311,195			$	222,361
	Foreign	186,711				57,017				260,170
	Total	$	538,442			$	368,212			$	482,531
	Current income tax expense:
	Federal	$	53,953			$	67,022			$	90,179
	State	2,195				6,107				5,407
	Foreign	18,414				19,672				27,166
	Total	$	74,562			$	92,801			$	122,752
	Deferred income tax expense (benefit):
	Federal	$	69,817			$	928			$	(27,128	)
	State	2,416				648				(626		)
	Foreign	(12,350		)		(13,944		)		9,473
	Total	$	59,883			$	(12,368	)		$	(18,281	)
	Total income tax expense	$	134,445			$	80,433			$	104,471
	The significant differences between the U.S. federal statutory rate and the effective income tax rate are as follows:
		% of Income Before Income Taxes
		2013			2012			2011
	Federal statutory rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	State taxes, net of federal tax benefit	0.7			1.4			0.6
	Change in valuation allowance(a)	(2.2	)		3.4			(0.3	)
	Impact of foreign earnings, net(b)	(10.3	)		(6.3	)		(10.9	)
	Depletion	(0.9	)		(1.3	)		(0.9	)
	Revaluation of unrecognized tax benefits/reserve requirements(c)	(0.1	)		(1.7	)		(0.1	)
	Domestic Manufacturing tax deduction(d)	(0.9	)		(3.8	)		(1.2	)
	Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries(b)	2.9			(4.9	)		(0.4	)
	Other items, net	0.8			—			(0.1	)
	Effective income tax rate	25	%		21.8	%		21.7	%
	(a)	During 2013, the Avonmouth, United Kingdom legal entity was dissolved, therefore the corresponding valuation allowance and deferred tax assets were written off. During 2012, a valuation allowance was established for $15.9 million as a result of the planned shut-down of our Avonmouth, United Kingdom legal entity in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business. See Note 19, “Special Items.”
	(b)	In prior years, we designated the undistributed earnings of substantially all of our foreign subsidiaries as indefinitely invested. The benefit of the lower tax rates in the jurisdictions for which we made this designation have been reflected in our effective income tax rate. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, we received distributions of $12.3 million, $56.9 million and $33.8 million, respectively, from various foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures and realized an expense (benefit), net of foreign tax credits, of $2.4 million, $(1.8) million and $5.4 million, respectively, related to the repatriation of these high taxed earnings. We have asserted for all periods being reported, indefinite investment of our share of the income of JBC, a Free Zones company under the laws of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The applicable provisions of the Jordanian law, and applicable regulations thereunder, do not have a termination provision and the exemption is indefinite. As a Free Zones company, JBC is not subject to income taxes on the profits of products exported from Jordan, and currently, substantially all of the profits are from exports. In 2012, undistributed foreign subsidiary earnings were primarily impacted by a $17.4 million change related to the closure of our Avonmouth, United Kingdom site in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business.
	(c)	During 2012, we released various tax reserves primarily related to the expiration of the applicable U.S. federal statute of limitations for 2008 which provided a net benefit of $5.2 million.
	(d)	During 2012, we amended the calculation of the domestic manufacturing tax deduction for the year 2010 and filed the 2011 tax return. As a result, in 2012 we recognized tax benefits of $1.5 million and $3.0 million related to the 2010 and 2011 tax years, respectively.
	The deferred income tax assets and liabilities recorded on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 consist of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013				2012
	Deferred tax assets:
	Postretirement benefits other than pensions	$	300			$	14,900
	Accrued employee benefits	31,089				26,603
	Operating loss carryovers	88,614				74,934
	Pensions	37,172				74,521
	Tax credit carryovers	35,170				37,684
	Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	—				15,583
	Other	15,447				23,280
	Gross deferred tax assets	207,792				267,505
	Valuation allowance	(33,757		)		(49,562		)
	Deferred tax assets	174,035				217,943
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Depreciation	(213,575		)		(193,021		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	(3,104		)		(4,933		)
	Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	(71		)		—
	Other	(19,747		)		(20,348		)
	Deferred tax liabilities	(236,497		)		(218,302		)
	Net deferred tax liabilities	$	(62,462	)		$	(359	)
	Classification in the consolidated balance sheets:
	Current deferred tax assets	$	3,912			$	4,197
	Current deferred tax liabilities	(2,853		)		(5,700		)
	Noncurrent deferred tax assets	65,667				64,512
	Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities	(129,188		)		(63,368		)
Net deferred tax liabilities	$	(62,462	)		$	(359	)
Changes in the balance of our deferred tax asset valuation allowance are as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ended December 31,
	2013				2012				2011
Balance at January 1	$	(49,562	)		$	(36,419	)		$	(39,802	)
Additions	(4,359		)		(20,182		)		(6,155		)
Deductions	20,164				7,039				9,538
Balance at December 31	$	(33,757	)		$	(49,562	)		$	(36,419	)
At December 31, 2013, we had approximately $36.6 million of domestic credits available to offset future payments of income taxes, expiring in varying amounts between 2016 and 2023. We have established valuation allowances for $3.2 million of those domestic credits since we believe that it is more likely than not that the related deferred tax assets will not be realized. We believe that sufficient taxable income will be generated during the carryover period in order to utilize the other remaining credit carryovers.
At December 31, 2013, we have, on a pre-tax basis, $31.6 million of domestic net operating losses and $279.8 million of foreign net operating loss carryovers. We have established pre-tax valuation allowances for $101.6 million of those foreign net operating loss carryovers since we believe that it is more likely than not that the related deferred tax assets will not be realized. For the same reason, we established pre-tax valuation allowances for $0.8 million related to foreign deferred tax assets not related to net operating losses. The realization of the deferred tax assets is dependent on the generation of sufficient taxable income in the appropriate tax jurisdictions. Although realization is not assured, we believe it is more likely than not that the remaining deferred tax assets will be realized. However, the amount considered realizable could be reduced if estimates of future taxable income change. We believe that it is more likely than not that the Company will generate sufficient taxable income in the future to fully utilize all other deferred tax assets.
As of December 31, 2013, we have not recorded U.S. income taxes on approximately $0.9 billion of cumulative undistributed earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries and joint ventures, as these earnings are intended to be either indefinitely invested or subject to a tax-free liquidation and do not give rise to significant incremental U.S. taxes. A determination of the amount of the unrecognized deferred tax liability related to these undistributed earnings is not practicable.
Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions were $29.8 million and $29.2 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, inclusive of interest and penalties of $0.7 million and $0.8 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and are reported in Other noncurrent liabilities as provided in Note 13. These liabilities at December 31, 2013 and 2012 were reduced by $25.7 million and $25.8 million, respectively, for offsetting benefits from the corresponding effects of potential transfer pricing adjustments, state income taxes and rate arbitrage related to foreign structure. These offsetting benefits are recorded in Other assets as provided in Note 9. The resulting net liabilities of $3.4 million and $2.6 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, if recognized and released, would favorably affect earnings.
The liabilities related to uncertain tax positions, exclusive of interest, were $29.1 million and $28.4 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The following is a reconciliation of our total gross liability related to uncertain tax positions for 2013, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
	Year Ended December 31,
	2013				2012				2011
Balance at January 1	$	28,398			$	29,789			$	20,949
Additions for tax positions related to prior years	—				4,242				—
Reductions for tax positions related to prior years	(348		)		—				(1,639		)
Additions for tax positions related to current year	2,061				3,639				10,802
Lapses in statutes of limitations	(473		)		(10,057		)		(323		)
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(495		)		785				—
Balance at December 31	$	29,143			$	28,398			$	29,789
We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and numerous foreign jurisdictions. We are no longer subject to U.S. federal income tax audits by tax authorities for years prior to 2010 since the IRS has completed a review of our income tax returns through 2007 and our statute of limitations has expired for 2008 and 2009 except for the amount of any carryforward to 2010. We also are no longer subject to any U.S. state income tax audits prior to 2004.
With respect to jurisdictions outside the U.S., we are no longer subject to income tax audits for years prior to 2006. During 2013, the German tax authorities continued the audit of two of our German subsidiaries for 2006 through 2009 that began in 2011, and the Chinese tax authorities completed an audit of one of our Chinese subsidiaries for 2006 through 2010 that began in 2011. During 2011, we completed tax audits for one of our Belgian companies for 2008 and 2009, our Japanese company for 2006 through 2010, and two of our Chinese companies through 2010. No significant tax was assessed as a result of the completed audits.
While we believe we have adequately provided for all tax positions, amounts asserted by taxing authorities could be greater than our accrued position. Accordingly, additional provisions on federal and foreign tax-related matters could be recorded in the future as revised estimates are made or the underlying matters are settled or otherwise resolved.
Since the timing of resolutions and/or closure of tax audits is uncertain, it is difficult to predict with certainty the range of reasonably possible significant increases or decreases in the liability related to uncertain tax positions that may occur within the next twelve months. Our current view is that it is reasonably possible that we could record a decrease in the liability related to uncertain tax positions, relating to a number of issues, up to approximately $2.8 million as a result of closure of tax statutes.

Special_Items

Special Items	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Disclosure Special Items Additional Information [Abstract]	'
Special Items	'
	Special Items:
	Restructuring and other charges, net reported in the consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 consist of the following (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Charges in connection with global business realignment(a)	$	33,361		$	—		$	—
	Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business(b)	—			100,777			—
	Defined benefit pension plan curtailment gain, net(c)	—			(4,507		)	—
	Employer contribution to defined contribution plan(c)	—			10,081			—
	Other(d)	—			5,334			—
	Total Restructuring and other charges, net	$	33,361		$	111,685		$	—
	(a)	In connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014, in the fourth quarter of 2013 we initiated a workforce reduction plan which will result in a reduction of approximately 230 employees worldwide. In the fourth quarter of 2013 we recorded charges of $33.4 million ($21.9 million after income taxes) for termination benefits and other costs related to this workforce reduction plan. Payments under this workforce reduction plan are expected to occur through 2014.
	(b)	In the second quarter of 2012 we recorded net charges amounting to $94.7 million ($73.6 million after income taxes), and in the fourth quarter we recorded net charges amounting to $6.1 million ($2.5 million after income taxes), in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business, whose products were sourced mainly at our Avonmouth, United Kingdom and Nanjing, China manufacturing sites. The charges are comprised mainly of non-cash items consisting of net asset write-offs of approximately $57 million and write-offs of foreign currency translation adjustments of approximately $12 million, as well as accruals for future cash costs associated with related severance programs of approximately $22 million, estimated site remediation costs of approximately $9 million, other estimated exit costs of approximately $3 million, partly offset by a gain of approximately $2 million related to the sale of our Nanjing, China manufacturing site. Payments under this restructuring plan are expected to occur through 2014.
	(c)	In the fourth quarter of 2012 we recorded a net curtailment gain of $4.5 million ($2.9 million after income taxes) and a one-time employer contribution to the Company’s defined contribution plan of $10.1 million ($6.4 million after income taxes), both in connection with various amendments to certain of our U.S. pension and defined contribution plans that were approved by our Board of Directors in the fourth quarter of 2012. See Note 17, “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits.”
	(d)	In the fourth quarter of 2012 we recorded charges amounting to $5.3 million ($4.3 million after income taxes) related to changes in product sourcing and other items.
	We had the following activity in our recorded workforce reduction liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Balance, beginning of year	$	15,898		$	4,780		$	7,074
	Workforce reduction charges(a)	33,361			21,640			1,859
	Payments	(8,915		)	(10,929		)	(4,292		)
	Amount reversed to income(b)	(1,209		)	(45		)	19
	Foreign currency translation	(31		)	452			120
	Balance, end of year	39,104			15,898			4,780
	Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses	39,104			14,428			2,843
	Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities	$	—		$	1,470		$	1,937
	(a)	The year ended December 31, 2013 includes charges amounting to $33.4 million in connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014 as described above.
	The year ended December 31, 2012 includes charges amounting to $21.6 million relating to reduction in force liabilities associated with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business noted above.
	The year ended December 31, 2011 includes charges of $1.9 million related to restructuring programs at various manufacturing locations which are reflected in Cost of goods sold. Payments under these programs have been completed.
	(b)	Amounts reversed to income reflect adjustments based on actual timing and amount of final settlements.
	Also, the year ended December 31, 2012 includes a gain of $8.1 million ($5.1 million after income taxes) resulting from proceeds received in connection with the settlement of certain commercial litigation (net of estimated reimbursement of related legal fees of approximately $0.9 million). The litigation involved claims and cross-claims relating to alleged breaches of a purchase and sale agreement. The settlement resolves all outstanding issues and claims between the parties and they agreed to dismiss all outstanding litigation and release all existing and potential claims against each other that were or could have been asserted in the litigation. The year ended December 31, 2012 also includes an $8 million ($5.1 million after income taxes) charitable contribution to the Albemarle Foundation, a non-profit organization that sponsors grants, health and social projects, educational initiatives, disaster relief, matching gift programs, scholarships and other charitable initiatives in locations where our employees live and operate. These items are included in our consolidated Selling, general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	'
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments:
	In assessing the fair value of financial instruments, we use methods and assumptions that are based on market conditions and other risk factors existing at the time of assessment. Fair value information for our financial instruments is as follows:
	Long-Term Debt—the fair values of our senior notes and other fixed rate foreign borrowings are estimated using Level 1 inputs and account for the majority of the difference between the recorded amount and fair value of our long-term debt. The carrying value of our remaining long-term debt reported in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets approximates fair value as substantially all of such debt bears interest based on prevailing variable market rates currently available in the countries in which we have borrowings.
		December 31,
		2013				2012
		Recorded		Fair Value		Recorded		Fair Value
		Amount				Amount
		(In thousands)
	Long-term debt	$	1,078,864	$	1,109,878	$	699,288	$	764,784
	Foreign Currency Forward Contracts—we enter into foreign currency forward contracts in connection with our risk management strategies in an attempt to minimize the financial impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates. These derivative financial instruments are used to manage risk and are not used for trading or other speculative purposes. The fair values of our foreign currency forward contracts are estimated based on current settlement values. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, we had outstanding foreign currency forward contracts with notional values totaling $321.4 million and $274.0 million, respectively. At December 31, 2013, $0.2 million was included in Other accounts receivable associated with the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts. At December 31, 2012, $0.3 million was included in Other accounts receivable and $0.8 million was included in Accrued expenses associated with the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts.
	Gains and losses on foreign currency forward contracts are recognized currently in Other (expenses) income, net; further, fluctuations in the value of these contracts are generally expected to be offset by changes in the value of the underlying exposures being hedged. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 we recognized (losses) gains of $(1.1) million, $5.1 million and $1.0 million, respectively, in Other (expenses) income, net in our consolidated statements of income related to the change in the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts. These amounts are generally expected to be offset by changes in the value of the underlying exposures being hedged which are also reported in Other (expenses) income, net. Also, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, we recorded $1.1 million, $(5.1) million and $(1.0) million, respectively, related to the change in the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts, and net cash settlements of $(1.8) million, $4.8 million and $(3.0) million, respectively, in Other, net in our consolidated statements of cash flows.

Fair_Value_Measurement

Fair Value Measurement	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurement	'
	Fair Value Measurement:
	Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). The inputs used to measure fair value are classified into the following hierarchy:
	Level 1	Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
	Level 2	Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, or
		Unadjusted quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or
		Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability
	Level 3	Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability
	We endeavor to utilize the best available information in measuring fair value. Financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy are deemed to have occurred on the date of the event or change in circumstance that caused the transfer. There were no transfers between Levels 1 and 2 during the year ended December 31, 2013. The following tables set forth our financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		31-Dec-13		Quoted Prices in		Quoted Prices in		Unobservable
				Active Markets		Active Markets		Inputs
				for Identical		for Similar		(Level 3)
				Items		Items
				(Level 1)		(Level 2)
	Assets:
	Investments under executive deferred compensation	$	23,030	$	23,030	$	—	$	—
	plan (a)
	Equity securities (b)	$	771	$	21	$	—	$	750
	Foreign currency forward contracts (c)	$	161	$	—	$	161	$	—
	Pension assets (d)	$	616,545	$	482,002	$	10,944	$	123,599
	Postretirement assets (d)	$	5,620	$	—	$	5,620	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Obligations under executive deferred compensation	$	23,030	$	23,030	$	—	$	—
	plan (a)
		31-Dec-12		Quoted Prices in		Quoted Prices in		Unobservable
				Active Markets		Active Markets		Inputs
				for Identical		for Similar		(Level 3)
				Items		Items
				(Level 1)		(Level 2)
	Assets:
	Investments under executive deferred compensation	$	20,265	$	20,265	$	—	$	—
	plan (a)
	Equity securities (b)	$	25	$	25	$	—	$	—
	Foreign currency forward contracts (c)	$	262	$	—	$	262	$	—
	Pension assets (d)	$	563,303	$	247,463	$	245,011	$	70,829
	Postretirement assets (d)	$	6,611	$	—	$	6,611	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Obligations under executive deferred compensation	$	20,265	$	20,265	$	—	$	—
	plan (a)
	Foreign currency forward contracts (c)	$	771	$	—	$	771	$	—
	(a)	We maintain an EDCP that was adopted in 2001 and subsequently amended. The purpose of the EDCP is to provide current tax planning opportunities as well as supplemental funds upon the retirement or death of certain of our employees. The EDCP is intended to aid in attracting and retaining employees of exceptional ability by providing them with these benefits. We also maintain a Benefit Protection Trust (the Trust) that was created to provide a source of funds to assist in meeting the obligations of the EDCP, subject to the claims of our creditors in the event of our insolvency. Assets of the Trust are consolidated in accordance with authoritative guidance. The assets of the Trust consist primarily of mutual fund investments (which are accounted for as trading securities and are marked-to-market on a monthly basis through the consolidated statements of income) and cash and cash equivalents. As such, these assets and obligations are classified within Level 1.
	(b)	Primarily consists of private equity securities classified as available-for-sale and are reported in Investments in the consolidated balance sheets. The changes in fair value are reported in Other in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Holdings in private equity securities are typically valued using the net asset valuations provided by the underlying private investment companies and as such are classified within Level 3.
	(c)	As a result of our global operating and financing activities, we are exposed to market risks from changes in foreign currency exchange rates, which may adversely affect our operating results and financial position. When deemed appropriate, we minimize our risks from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations through the use of derivative financial instruments. The foreign currency forward contracts are valued using broker quotations or market transactions in either the listed or over-the-counter markets. As such, these derivative instruments are classified within Level 2.
	(d)	See Note 17 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Acquisitions	'
	Acquisitions:
	On October 1, 2013, we acquired Cambridge Chemical Company, Ltd., for consideration of approximately $3.6 million. Cash payments related to this acquisition were $2.3 million in 2013. On May 11, 2011, we announced that we had expanded our presence in the biofuels market with the acquisition of Catilin Inc. Cash payments related to this acquisition were $4.5 million in 2011. In the third quarter of 2010, we purchased certain property and equipment in Yeosu, South Korea in connection with our plans for building a metallocene polyolefin catalyst and TMG manufacturing site. Cash payments related to this acquisition were $6.5 million in 2011.

Operating_Segments_and_Geograp

Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information	'
	Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information:
	Effective January 1, 2014, the Company’s assets and businesses were realigned under two operating segments to better align the Company’s resources to support its ongoing business strategy. The Performance Chemicals segment includes the Fire Safety Solutions, Specialty Chemicals and Fine Chemistry Services product categories, consolidating our bromine, mineral and custom manufacturing assets under one business unit. The Catalyst Solutions segment includes the Refinery Catalyst Solutions and Performance Catalyst Solutions product categories. Each segment has a dedicated team of sales, research and development, process engineering, manufacturing and sourcing, and business strategy personnel and has full accountability for improving execution through greater asset and market focus, agility and responsiveness. The new structure also facilitates the continued standardization of business processes across the organization as part of our ongoing One Albemarle strategy. The new segment structure is consistent with the manner in which information is presently used internally by the Company’s chief operating decision maker to evaluate performance and make resource allocation decisions, and each segment president is responsible for execution of the segment’s business strategy.
	Segment income represents segment operating profit and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments and is reduced by net income attributable to noncontrolling interests. Segment data includes intersegment transfers of raw materials at cost and allocations for certain corporate costs.
	Summarized financial information concerning our reportable segments is shown in the following tables. Results for all periods presented have been recast to reflect the change in operating segments noted above, and segment results for all periods presented exclude discontinued operations as further described in Note 1. Corporate & other includes corporate-related items not allocated to the reportable segments. Pension and OPEB service cost (which represents the benefits earned by active employees during the period) and amortization of prior service cost or benefit are allocated to each segment whereas the remaining components of pension and OPEB benefits cost or credit are included in Corporate & other.
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
					(In thousands)
	Net sales:
	Performance Chemicals	$	1,392,664		$	1,451,247		$	1,534,804
	Catalyst Solutions	1,001,606			1,067,907			1,116,863
	Total net sales	$	2,394,270		$	2,519,154		$	2,651,667
	Segment operating profit:
	Performance Chemicals	$	334,275		$	410,359		$	445,463
	Catalyst Solutions	194,322			230,648			259,116
	Total segment operating profit	528,597			641,007			704,579
	Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments:
	Performance Chemicals	8,875			6,416			7,696
	Catalyst Solutions	22,854			31,651			36,259
	Corporate & other	—			—			(201		)
	Total equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	31,729			38,067			43,754
	Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests:
	Performance Chemicals	(26,663		)	(18,571		)	(28,109		)
	Corporate & other	—			(20		)	26
	Total net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(26,663		)	(18,591		)	(28,083		)
	Segment income:
	Performance Chemicals	316,487			398,204			425,050
	Catalyst Solutions	217,176			262,299			295,375
	Total segment income	533,663			660,503			720,425
	Corporate & other(a)	81,439			(129,559		)	(185,006		)
	Restructuring and other charges(b)	(33,361		)	(111,685		)	—
	Interest and financing expenses	(31,559		)	(32,800		)	(37,574		)
	Other (expenses) income, net	(6,674		)	1,229			357
	Income tax expense	(134,445		)	(80,433		)	(104,471		)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)	4,108			4,281			(1,617		)
	Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$	413,171		$	311,536		$	392,114
	(a)	For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, Corporate and other includes $143.1 million, $(68.0) million and $(89.2) million, respectively, of pension and OPEB plan credits (costs) (including mark-to-market actuarial gains and losses).
	(b)	See Note 19, “Special Items.”
		As of December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
					(In thousands)
	Identifiable assets:
	Performance Chemicals	$	1,129,838		$	1,110,006		$	1,011,144
	Catalyst Solutions	1,695,120			1,572,883			1,502,984
	Corporate & other	759,839			754,402			689,696
	Total identifiable assets	$	3,584,797		$	3,437,291		$	3,203,824
	Goodwill:
	Performance Chemicals	$	43,603		$	43,519		$	43,098
	Catalyst Solutions	240,600			233,447			230,047
	Total goodwill	$	284,203		$	276,966		$	273,145
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
					(In thousands)
	Depreciation and amortization:
	Performance Chemicals	$	43,472		$	37,831		$	38,285
	Catalyst Solutions	49,656			47,155			45,739
	Discontinued Operations	12,054			12,120			11,394
	Corporate & other	2,188			1,914			1,335
	Total depreciation and amortization	$	107,370		$	99,020		$	96,753
	Capital expenditures:
	Performance Chemicals	$	94,506		$	156,648		$	110,035
	Catalyst Solutions	60,326			122,746			65,308
	Corporate & other	514			1,479			15,231
	Total capital expenditures	$	155,346		$	280,873		$	190,574
	Year Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
				(In thousands)
Net Sales:(a)
United States	$	933,182		$	959,571		$	1,021,205
Foreign	1,461,088			1,559,583			1,630,462
Total	$	2,394,270		$	2,519,154		$	2,651,667
(a)	No sales in a foreign country exceed 10% of total net sales. Also, net sales are attributed to countries based upon shipments to final destination.
	As of December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
				(In thousands)
Long-Lived Assets:
United States	$	748,719		$	735,269		$	652,022
Netherlands	193,775			192,540			185,799
Jordan	227,818			209,133			141,725
Brazil	78,078			85,353			83,452
Germany	86,175			72,797			70,051
China	41,858			39,542			64,449
France	34,523			32,305			28,652
Korea	86,827			81,962			25,008
United Kingdom	3,665			—			12,436
Other foreign countries	47,139			33,598			46,323
Total	$	1,548,577		$	1,482,499		$	1,309,917
Net sales to external customers by product category in each of the segments consists of the following:
	Year Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
				(In thousands)
Performance Chemicals:
Fire Safety Solutions	$	620,972		$	665,293		$	780,541
Specialty Chemicals	520,998			519,606			515,511
Fine Chemistry Services	250,694			266,348			238,752
Total Performance Chemicals	$	1,392,664		$	1,451,247		$	1,534,804
Catalyst Solutions:
Refinery Catalyst Solutions	$	768,837		$	794,933		$	851,482
Performance Catalyst Solutions	232,769			272,974			265,381
Total Catalyst Solutions	$	1,001,606		$	1,067,907		$	1,116,863

Quarterly_Financial_Summary_Un

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited)	'
	Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited):
		First			Second			Third			Fourth
		Quarter			Quarter			Quarter			Quarter
		(In thousands, except per share amounts)
	2013
	Net sales	$	586,597		$	576,842		$	591,196		$	639,635
	Gross profit	$	195,911		$	191,670		$	209,611		$	253,279
	Restructuring and other charges, net(a)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	33,361
	Net income from continuing operations	$	87,681		$	88,500		$	97,313		$	162,232
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of	1,835			2,628			531			(886		)
	tax)
	Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(5,529		)	(8,389		)	(7,332		)	(5,413		)
	Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$	83,987		$	82,739		$	90,512		$	155,933
	Basic earnings (loss) per share:
	Continuing operations	$	0.93		$	0.95		$	1.1		$	1.93
	Discontinued operations	0.02			0.03			0.01			(0.01		)
		$	0.95		$	0.98		$	1.11		$	1.92
	Shares used to compute basic earnings per share	88,719			84,028			81,385			81,226
	Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
	Continuing operations	$	0.92		$	0.95		$	1.1		$	1.92
	Discontinued operations	0.02			0.03			0.01			(0.01		)
		$	0.94		$	0.98		$	1.11		$	1.91
	Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share	89,236			84,489			81,852			81,713
		First			Second			Third			Fourth
		Quarter			Quarter			Quarter			Quarter
		(In thousands, except per share amounts)
	2012
	Net sales	$	656,615		$	625,494		$	604,368		$	632,677
	Gross profit	$	246,068		$	245,879		$	215,534		$	191,362
	Restructuring and other charges, net(a)	$	—		$	94,703		$	—		$	16,982
	Net income from continuing operations	$	116,226		$	51,987		$	113,800		$	43,833
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of	2,407			1,608			634			(368		)
	tax)
	Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(4,371		)	(3,506		)	(4,975		)	(5,739		)
	Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$	114,262		$	50,089		$	109,459		$	37,726
	Basic earnings (loss) per share:
	Continuing operations	$	1.25		$	0.54		$	1.22		$	0.42
	Discontinued operations	0.03			0.02			0.01			—
		$	1.28		$	0.56		$	1.23		$	0.42
	Shares used to compute basic earnings per share	88,997			89,414			89,327			89,018
	Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
	Continuing operations	$	1.24		$	0.54		$	1.21		$	0.42
	Discontinued operations	0.03			0.02			0.01			—
		$	1.27		$	0.56		$	1.22		$	0.42
	Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share	89,947			90,051			89,879			89,660
	(a)	See Note 19, “Special Items.”
	As discussed in Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” actuarial gains and losses are recognized annually in our consolidated statements of income in the fourth quarter and whenever a plan is determined to qualify for a remeasurement during a fiscal year. See Note 17, “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for information about actuarial gains and losses recognized in our consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012.

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Basis of Consolidation	'
	Basis of Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts and operations of Albemarle Corporation and our wholly owned, majority owned and controlled subsidiaries. Unless the context otherwise indicates, the terms “Albemarle,” “we,” “us,” “our” or “the Company” mean Albemarle Corporation and our consolidated subsidiaries. We apply the equity method of accounting for investments in which we have an ownership interest from 20% to 50% or where we exercise significant influence over the related investee’s operations. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.
Estimates, Assumptions and Reclassifications	'
	Estimates, Assumptions and Reclassifications
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in the United States (U.S.) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
	Certain amounts in the accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes thereto have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.
Revenue Recognition	'
	Revenue Recognition
	We recognize sales when the revenue is realized or realizable, and has been earned, in accordance with authoritative accounting guidance. We recognize net sales as risk and title to the product transfer to the customer, which usually occurs at the time shipment is made. Significant portions of our sales are sold free on board (FOB) shipping point or on an equivalent basis, and other transactions are based upon specific contractual arrangements. Our standard terms of delivery are generally included in our contracts of sale, order confirmation documents and invoices. We recognize revenue from services when performance of the services has been completed. We have a limited amount of consignment sales that are billed to the customer upon monthly notification of amounts used by the customers under these contracts. Where the Company incurs pre-production design and development costs under long-term supply contracts, these costs are expensed where they relate to the products sold unless contractual guarantees for reimbursement exist. Conversely, these costs are capitalized if they pertain to equipment that we will own and use in producing the products to be supplied and expect to utilize for future revenue generating activities.
Performance and Life Cycle Guarantees	'
	Performance and Life Cycle Guarantees
	We provide customers certain performance guarantees and life cycle guarantees. These guarantees entitle the customer to claim compensation if the product does not conform to performance standards originally agreed upon. Performance guarantees relate to minimum technical specifications that products produced with the delivered product must meet, such as yield and product quality. Life cycle guarantees relate to minimum periods for which performance of the delivered product is guaranteed. When either performance guarantees or life cycle guarantees are contractually agreed upon, an assessment of the appropriate revenue recognition treatment is evaluated. When testing or modeling of historical results predict that the performance or life cycle criteria will be satisfied, revenue is recognized in accordance with shipping terms at the time of delivery. When testing or modeling of historical results predict that the performance or life cycle criteria may not be satisfied, we bill the customer upon shipment and defer the related revenue and cost associated with these products. These deferrals are released to earnings when the contractual period expires.
Shipping and Handling Costs	'
	Shipping and Handling Costs
	Amounts billed to customers in a sales transaction related to shipping and handling have been classified as net sales and the cost incurred by us for shipping and handling has been classified as cost of goods sold in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. In addition, taxes billed to customers in a sales transaction are presented in the consolidated statements of income on a net basis.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	'
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents include cash and highly liquid investments with insignificant interest rate risks and original maturities of three months or less.
Inventories	'
	Inventories
	Inventories are stated at lower of cost or market with cost determined primarily on the first-in, first-out basis. Cost is determined on the weighted-average basis for a small portion of our inventories at foreign plants and our stores, supplies and other inventory. A portion of our domestic produced finished goods and raw materials are determined on the last-in, first-out basis.
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
	Property, Plant and Equipment
	Property, plant and equipment include costs of assets constructed, purchased or leased under a capital lease, related delivery and installation costs and interest incurred on significant capital projects during their construction periods. Expenditures for renewals and betterments also are capitalized, but expenditures for normal repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. Costs associated with yearly planned major maintenance are deferred and amortized over 12 months or until the same major maintenance activities must be repeated, whichever is shorter. The cost and accumulated depreciation applicable to assets retired or sold are removed from the respective accounts, and gains or losses thereon are included in income.
	The Company records depreciation and amortization in its consolidated statements of income primarily in Cost of goods sold, with minor amounts also recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses and Research and development expenses depending on the functional utilization of the related assets. Depreciation is computed by the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the assets. We have a policy where our internal engineering group provides asset life guidelines for book purposes. These guidelines are reviewed against the economic life of the business for each project and asset life is determined as the lesser of the manufacturing life or the “business” life. The engineering guidelines are reviewed periodically.
	We evaluate historical and expected undiscounted operating cash flows of our business segments to determine the future recoverability of any property, plant and equipment recorded. Property, plant and equipment is re-evaluated whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable.
	The costs of brine wells, leases and royalty interests are primarily amortized over the estimated average life of the field on a straight-line basis. On a yearly basis for all fields, this approximates a units-of-production method based upon estimated reserves and production volumes.
Investments	'
	Investments
	Investments are accounted for using the equity method of accounting if the investment gives us the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, over the investee. Significant influence is generally deemed to exist if we have an ownership interest in the voting stock of the investee between 20% and 50%, although other factors, such as representation on the investee’s board of directors and the impact of commercial arrangements, are considered in determining whether the equity method of accounting is appropriate. Under the equity method of accounting, we record our investments in equity-method investees in the consolidated balance sheets as Investments and our share of investees’ earnings or losses together with other-than temporary impairments in value as Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments in the consolidated statements of income.
	Certain mutual fund investments are accounted for as trading equities and are marked-to-market on a monthly basis through the consolidated statements of income. Investments in joint ventures and nonmarketable securities of immaterial entities are estimated based upon the overall performance of the entity where financial results are not available on a timely basis.
Environmental Compliance and Remediation	'
	Environmental Compliance and Remediation
	Environmental compliance costs include the cost of purchasing and/or constructing assets to prevent, limit and/or control pollution or to monitor the environmental status at various locations. These costs are capitalized and depreciated based on estimated useful lives. Environmental compliance costs also include maintenance and operating costs with respect to pollution prevention and control facilities and other administrative costs. Such operating costs are expensed as incurred. Environmental remediation costs of facilities used in current operations are generally immaterial and are expensed as incurred. On an undiscounted basis, we accrue for environmental remediation costs and post-remediation costs that relate to existing conditions caused by past operations at facilities or off-plant disposal sites in the accounting period in which responsibility is established and when the related costs are estimable. In developing these cost estimates, we evaluate currently available facts regarding each site, with consideration given to existing technology, presently enacted laws and regulations, prior experience in remediation of contaminated sites, the financial capability of other potentially responsible parties and other factors, subject to uncertainties inherent in the estimation process. Additionally, these estimates are reviewed periodically, with adjustments to the accruals recorded as necessary.
Research and Development Expenses	'
	Research and Development Expenses
	Our research and development expenses related to present and future products are expensed as incurred. These expenses consist primarily of personnel-related costs and other overheads, as well as outside service and consulting costs incurred for specific programs. Our U.S. facilities in Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas and Louisiana and our global facilities in the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, China and Korea form the capability base for our contract research and custom manufacturing businesses. These business areas provide research and scale-up services primarily to innovative life science companies.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	'
	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	We account for goodwill and other intangibles acquired in a business combination in conformity with current accounting guidance that requires that goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets not be amortized.
	We test goodwill for impairment by comparing the estimated fair value of our reporting units to the related carrying value. We estimate the fair value based on present value techniques involving future cash flows. Future cash flows include assumptions for sales volumes, selling prices, raw material prices, labor and other employee benefit costs, capital additions and other economic or market related factors. Significant management judgment is involved in estimating these variables and they include inherent uncertainties since they are forecasting future events. We use a Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) approach to determine our discount rate for goodwill recoverability testing. Our WACC calculation incorporates industry-weighted average returns on debt and equity from a market perspective. The factors in this calculation are largely external to our company, and therefore, are beyond our control. We test our recorded goodwill balances for impairment in the fourth quarter of each year or upon the occurrence of events or changes in circumstances that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting units below their carrying amounts. The Company performed its annual goodwill impairment test as of October 31, 2013 and concluded there was no impairment as of that date.
	Definite-lived intangible assets, such as purchased technology, patents, customer lists and trade names are amortized over their estimated useful lives, generally for periods ranging from five to forty years. We continually evaluate the reasonableness of the useful lives of these assets and test for impairment in accordance with current accounting guidance. See Note 10, “Goodwill and Other Intangibles.”
Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits	'
	Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits
	Under authoritative accounting standards, assumptions are made regarding the valuation of benefit obligations and the performance of plan assets. As required, we recognize a balance sheet asset or liability for each of the pension and other postretirement benefit (OPEB) plans equal to the plan’s funded status as of the measurement date. The primary assumptions are as follows:
	•	Discount Rate—The discount rate is used in calculating the present value of benefits, which is based on projections of benefit payments to be made in the future.
	•	Expected Return on Plan Assets—We project the future return on plan assets based on prior performance and future expectations for the types of investments held by the plans, as well as the expected long-term allocation of plan assets for these investments. These projected returns reduce the net benefit costs recorded currently.
	•	Rate of Compensation Increase—For salary-related plans, we project employees’ annual pay increases, which are used to project employees’ pension benefits at retirement.
	•	Rate of Increase in the Per Capita Cost of Covered Health Care Benefits—Eligible retirees receive fully insured medical benefits with the Company providing a cost sharing benefit subject to a cap. The pre-65 and post-65 caps were fully met as of January 1, 2013 and we do not anticipate increases in the cost sharing caps.
	Actuarial gains and losses are recognized annually in our consolidated statements of income in the fourth quarter and whenever a plan is determined to qualify for a remeasurement during a fiscal year. The remaining components of pension and OPEB plan expense, primarily service cost, interest cost and expected return on assets, are recorded on a quarterly basis. The market-related value of assets equals the actual market value as of the date of measurement.
	During 2013, we made changes to the assumptions related to the discount rate, expected return on assets, and mortality scales. We consider available information that we deem relevant when selecting each of these assumptions.
	In selecting the discount rates for the U.S. plans, we consider expected benefit payments on a plan-by-plan basis. As a result, the Company uses different discount rates for each plan depending on the demographics of participants and the expected timing of benefit payments. For 2013, the discount rates were calculated using the results from a bond matching technique developed by Milliman, which matched the future estimated annual benefit payments of each respective plan against a portfolio of bonds of high quality to determine the discount rate. We believe our selected discount rates are determined using preferred methodology under authoritative accounting guidance and accurately reflect market conditions as of the December 31, 2013 measurement date.
	In selecting the discount rates for the foreign plans, we relied on Aon Hewitt methods, including the Aon Hewitt Top-Quartile and a yield curve derived from fixed-income security yields. The yield curve is generally based on a universe containing Aa-graded corporate bonds in the Euro zone without special features or options, which could affect the duration. In some countries, the yield curve is based on local government bond rates with a premium added to reflect corporate bond risk. Payments we expect to be made from our retirement plans are applied to the resulting yield curve. For each plan, the discount rate was developed as the level equivalent rate that would produce the same present value as that using spot rates aligned with the projected benefit payments.
	In estimating the expected return on plan assets, we consider past performance and future expectations for the types of investments held by the plan as well as the expected long-term allocation of plan assets to these investments. In projecting the rate of compensation increase, we consider past experience in light of movements in inflation rates.
Employee Savings Plans	'
	Employee Savings Plans
	Certain of our employees participate in our defined contribution 401(k) employee savings plan, which is generally available to all U.S. full-time salaried and non-union hourly employees and to employees who are covered by a collective bargaining agreement that provides for such participation. With respect to our foreign subsidiaries, we have a plan in the Netherlands similar to a collective defined contribution plan.
Deferred Compensation Plan	'
	Deferred Compensation Plan
	We maintain an Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (EDCP) that was adopted in 2001 and subsequently amended. The purpose of the EDCP is to provide current tax planning opportunities as well as supplemental funds upon the retirement or death of certain of our employees. The EDCP is intended to aid in attracting and retaining employees of exceptional ability by providing them with these benefits. We also maintain a Benefit Protection Trust (the Trust) that was created to provide a source of funds to assist in meeting the obligations of the EDCP, subject to the claims of our creditors in the event of our insolvency. Assets of the Trust are consolidated in accordance with authoritative guidance. The assets of the Trust consist primarily of mutual fund investments (which are accounted for as trading securities and are marked-to-market on a monthly basis through the consolidated statement of income) and cash and cash equivalents.
Stock-based Compensation Expense	'
	Stock-based Compensation Expense
	The fair value of restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards and performance unit awards is determined based on the number of shares or units granted and the quoted price of our common stock at grant date, and the fair value of stock options is determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value of these awards is determined after giving effect to estimated forfeitures. Such value is recognized as expense over the service period, which is generally the vesting period of the equity grant. To the extent restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards, performance unit awards and stock options are forfeited prior to vesting in excess of the estimated forfeiture rate, the corresponding previously recognized expense is reversed as an offset to operating expenses.
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	We use the liability method for determining our income taxes, under which current and deferred tax liabilities and assets are recorded in accordance with enacted tax laws and rates. Under this method, the amounts of deferred tax liabilities and assets at the end of each period are determined using the tax rate expected to be in effect when taxes are actually paid or recovered. Future tax benefits are recognized to the extent that realization of such benefits is more likely than not.
	Deferred income taxes are provided for the estimated income tax effect of temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of existing assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets are also provided for operating losses, capital losses and certain tax credit carryovers. A valuation allowance, reducing deferred tax assets, is established when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The realization of such deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of sufficient future taxable income of the appropriate character. Although realization is not assured, we do not establish a valuation allowance when we believe it is more likely than not that a net deferred tax asset will be realized.
	We only recognize a tax benefit after concluding that it is more likely than not that the benefit will be sustained upon audit by the respective taxing authority based solely on the technical merits of the associated tax position. Once the recognition threshold is met, we recognize a tax benefit measured as the largest amount of the tax benefit that, in our judgment, is greater than 50% likely to be realized. Interest and penalties related to income tax liabilities under current accounting guidance for uncertain tax positions are included in income tax expense.
	We have designated the undistributed earnings of substantially all of our foreign operations as indefinitely invested and as a result we do not provide for deferred income taxes on the unremitted earnings of these subsidiaries. Our foreign earnings are computed under U.S. federal tax earnings and profits, or E&P, principles. In general, to the extent our financial reporting book basis over tax basis of a foreign subsidiary exceeds these E&P amounts, deferred taxes have not been provided as they are essentially permanent in duration. The determination of the amount of such unrecognized deferred tax liability is not practicable. We provide for deferred income taxes on our undistributed earnings of foreign operations that are not deemed to be indefinitely invested.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
	Accumulated other comprehensive income is comprised principally of foreign currency translation adjustments and net prior service benefit for our defined benefit plans and related deferred income taxes in accordance with current accounting guidance.
Foreign Currency Translation	'
	Foreign Currency Translation
	The assets and liabilities of all foreign subsidiaries were prepared in their respective functional currencies and translated into U.S. Dollars based on the current exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet dates, while income and expenses were translated at average exchange rates for the periods presented. Translation adjustments are reflected as a separate component of equity.
	Our consolidated statements of income include foreign exchange transaction losses of $10.6 million, $4.9 million and $3.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
Derivative Financial Instruments	'
	Derivative Financial Instruments
	We manage our foreign currency exposures by balancing certain assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies and through the use of foreign currency forward contracts from time to time, which generally expire within one year. The principal objective of such contracts is to minimize the financial risks and costs associated with global operating activities. While these contracts are subject to fluctuations in value, such fluctuations are generally expected to be offset by fluctuations in the value of the underlying foreign currency exposures being hedged. Gains and losses on foreign currency forward contracts are recognized currently in income, but generally do not have a significant impact on results of operations.
	The counterparties to these contractual agreements are major financial institutions with which we generally have other financial relationships. We are exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by these counterparties. However, we do not anticipate nonperformance by the counterparties. We do not utilize financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, we had outstanding foreign currency forward contracts with notional values totaling $321.4 million and $274.0 million, respectively.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	'
	Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
	In December 2011, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued accounting guidance that requires entities to disclose information about financial instruments (including derivatives) and transactions eligible for offset in the statement of financial position or subject to an agreement similar to a master netting arrangement. In January 2013, the FASB issued additional guidance that limits the scope of these new requirements to certain derivatives, repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements and securities borrowing and lending transactions. These amendments became effective on January 1, 2013 and had no impact on our consolidated financial statements.
	In February 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance that requires companies to present either in a single note or on the face of the financial statements the effect of significant amounts reclassified from each component of accumulated other comprehensive income, and the income statement line items affected by the reclassification. If a component is not required to be reclassified to net income in its entirety, companies would instead cross reference to the related footnote for additional information. These amendments became effective for us beginning with the first quarter of 2013 and did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
	In February 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance that requires entities that have obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements and for which the total amount is fixed at the reporting date to measure such obligations as the sum of (a) the amount the entity agreed to pay on the basis of its arrangement among its co-obligors, and (b) any additional amount the reporting entity expects to pay on behalf of its co-obligors. Entities are also required to disclose the nature, amount and any other relevant information about such obligations. This accounting guidance will become effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013 and should be applied retrospectively to all prior periods presented for obligations that exist at the beginning of an entity’s fiscal year of adoption. We do not expect this new guidance to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.
	In March 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance that clarifies a parent company’s accounting for the cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment when the parent sells a part or all of its investment in a foreign entity. The guidance clarifies that the sale of an investment in a foreign entity includes both (a) events that result in the loss of a controlling financial interest in a foreign entity, and (b) events that result in an acquirer obtaining control of an acquiree in which it held an equity interest immediately before the acquisition date (sometimes also referred to as a step acquisition). Accordingly, the cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment should be released into net income upon the occurrence of those events. This accounting guidance will become effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013, and should be applied prospectively to derecognition events occurring after the effective date. The impact of these new requirements on our financial statements will depend upon the nature, terms and size of derecognition events, if any, that may occur in the future related to any of our foreign entities.
	In July 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance designed to reduce diversity in practice of financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists. These new requirements become effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2013. We do not expect this new guidance to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures	'
	A summary of results of discontinued operations is as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012		2011
	Net sales	$	222,146	$	226,266	$	217,338
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations	$	5,985	$	6,381	$	(1,954	)
	Income tax expense	1,877		2,100		(337		)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)	$	4,108	$	4,281	$	(1,617	)

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa1

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Information Related to Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows	'
	Supplemental information related to the consolidated statements of cash flows is as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013		2012			2011
	Cash paid during the year for:
	Income taxes (net of refunds of $14,296, $1,849 and $4,339	$	51,772	$	112,442		$	123,341
	in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively)
	Interest (net of capitalization)	$	29,629	$	31,144		$	33,127
	Supplemental non-cash disclosures related to exit of phosphorus
	flame retardants business:
	Decrease in property, plant and equipment	$	—	$	(41,120	)	$	—
	Decrease in accumulated depreciation	—		(17,870		)	—
	Decrease in other intangibles, net of amortization	—		(27,384		)	—
	Increase in accumulated other comprehensive income	—		12,268			—
	Supplemental non-cash disclosures related to defined benefit
	pension plan net curtailment gain:
	Decrease in accumulated other comprehensive income	$	—	$	(4,507	)	$	—
	Supplemental non-cash disclosures related to other restructuring
	charges:
	Decrease in property, plant and equipment	$	—	$	(5,002	)	$	—
	Decrease in accumulated depreciation	—		(1,588		)	—

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Calculation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share	'
	Basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations are calculated as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Basic earnings per share from continuing operations
	Numerator:
	Net income from continuing operations	$	435,726		$	325,846		$	421,814
	Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests	(26,663		)	(18,591		)	(28,083		)
	Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$	409,063		$	307,255		$	393,731
	Denominator:
	Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share	83,839			89,189			90,522
	Basic earnings per share from continuing operations	$	4.88		$	3.44		$	4.35
	Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations
	Numerator:
	Net income from continuing operations	$	435,726		$	325,846		$	421,814
	Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests	(26,663		)	(18,591		)	(28,083		)
	Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$	409,063		$	307,255		$	393,731
	Denominator:
	Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share	83,839			89,189			90,522
	Incremental shares under stock compensation plans	483			695			1,000
	Total shares	84,322			89,884			91,522
	Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations	$	4.85		$	3.42		$	4.3

Other_Accounts_Receivable_Tabl

Other Accounts Receivable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Receivables [Abstract]	'
Other Accounts Receivable	'
	Other accounts receivable consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Value added tax/consumption tax	$	21,956	$	22,398
	Other	23,138		21,446
	Total	$	45,094	$	43,844

Other_Current_Assets_Tables

Other Current Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Other Assets [Abstract]	'
Other Current Assets	'
	Other current assets consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
			December 31,
			2013		2012
	Deferred income taxes—current(a)		$	3,912	$	4,197
	Income tax receivables		26,310		26,208
	Prepaid expenses		47,447		48,250
	Total		$	77,669	$	78,655
	(a)	See Note 18, “Income Taxes.”

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_T

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment, at Cost	'
	Property, plant and equipment, at cost, consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
			Useful	December 31,
			Lives
			(Years)	2013		2012
	Land		—	$	63,153	$	61,123
	Land improvements		5 – 30	52,452		51,218
	Buildings and improvements		10 – 45	235,929		198,260
	Machinery and equipment(a)		2 – 19	1,731,247		1,603,533
	Machinery and equipment (major plant components)(b)		20 – 45	688,284		586,433
	Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs		7 – 60	85,514		83,089
	Construction in progress		—	115,505		234,948
	Total			$	2,972,084	$	2,818,604
	(a)	Consists primarily of (1) short-lived production equipment components, office and building equipment and other equipment with estimated lives ranging 2 – 7 years, and (2) production process equipment (intermediate components) with estimated lives ranging 8 – 19 years.
	(b)	Consists primarily of (1) production process equipment (major unit components) with estimated lives ranging 20 – 29 years, and (2) production process equipment (infrastructure and other) with estimated lives ranging 30 – 45 years.

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Investments [Abstract]	'
Investment Balances	'
	The following table details our investment balances at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands).
		December 31,
		2013			2012
	Joint ventures	$	187,843		$	185,928
	Nonmarketable securities	534			923
	Marketable equity securities	23,801			20,290
	Total	$	212,178		$	207,141
Ownership Positions in Significant Unconsolidated Investments	'
	Our ownership positions in significant unconsolidated investments are shown below:
			December 31,
			2013		2012		2011
	*	Nippon Aluminum Alkyls - a joint venture with Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. that produces	50	%	50	%	50	%
		aluminum alkyls
	*	Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG - a joint venture with Radex Heraklith	50	%	50	%	50	%
		Industriebeteiligung AG that produces specialty magnesium hydroxide products
	*	Nippon Ketjen Company Limited - a joint venture with Sumitomo Metal Mining	50	%	50	%	50	%
		Company Limited that produces refinery catalysts
	*	Eurecat S.A. - a joint venture with IFP Investissements for refinery catalysts	50	%	50	%	50	%
		regeneration services
	*	Fábrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A. - a joint venture with Petrobras Quimica S.A. -	50	%	50	%	50	%
		PETROQUISA that produces catalysts and includes catalysts research and product
		development activities
	*	Stannica, LLC - a joint venture with PMC Group, Inc. that produces tin stabilizers	50	%	50	%	50	%
Summary of Assets, Liabilities and Results of Operations for Significant Unconsolidated Joint Ventures	'
	The following summary lists our assets, liabilities and results of operations for our significant unconsolidated joint ventures presented herein (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013			2012
	Summary of Balance Sheet Information:
	Current assets	$	313,446		$	343,129
	Noncurrent assets	198,776			212,587
	Total assets	$	512,222		$	555,716
	Current liabilities	$	100,469		$	129,105
	Noncurrent liabilities	77,734			76,422
	Total liabilities	$	178,203		$	205,527
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Summary of Statements of Income Information:
	Net sales	$	598,459		$	601,233		$	672,859
	Gross profit	$	169,406		$	165,650		$	189,691
	Income before income taxes	$	101,652		$	105,329		$	132,399
	Net income	$	71,294		$	71,561		$	88,414

Other_Assets_Tables

Other Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]	'
Other Assets	'
	Other assets consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
			December 31,
			2013		2012
	Deferred income taxes—noncurrent(a)		$	65,667	$	64,512
	Assets related to unrecognized tax benefits(a)		25,730		25,788
	Long-term advances to joint ventures(b)		25,124		25,017
	Other		43,708		39,519
	Total		$	160,229	$	154,836
	(a)	See Note 18, “Income Taxes.”
	(b)	See Note 8, “Investments.”

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles1

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Changes in Goodwill by Operating Segment	'
	The following table summarizes the changes in goodwill by operating segment for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		Performance Chemicals			Catalyst Solutions			Total
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	43,098		$	230,047		$	273,145
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	421			3,400			3,821
	Balance at December 31, 2012	43,519			233,447			276,966
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	84			7,153			7,237
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	43,603		$	240,600		$	284,203
Other Intangibles	'
	Other intangibles consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		Customer			Trade			Patents			Land Use			Manufacturing			Other			Total
		Lists and			Names(c)			and			Rights			Contracts and
		Relationships						Technology						Supply/Service
														Agreements
	Gross Asset Value
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	100,078		$	45,399		$	45,973		$	8,098		$	13,782		$	24,161		$	237,491
	Acquisitions(a)	—			—			1,500			—			—			—			1,500
	Exit of phosphorus flame retardants	(16,189		)	(19,441		)	—			(1,915		)	(5,470		)	(1,122		)	(44,137		)
	business(b)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	1,278			985			403			20			211			373			3,270
	and other
	Balance at December 31, 2012	85,167			26,943			47,876			6,203			8,523			23,412			198,124
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	1,259			(36		)	867			173			(185		)	216			2,294
	and other
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	86,426		$	26,907		$	48,743		$	6,376		$	8,338		$	23,628		$	200,418
	Accumulated Amortization
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	(30,281	)	$	(12,220	)	$	(35,212	)	$	(1,118	)	$	(11,113	)	$	(17,266	)	$	(107,210	)
	Amortization	(4,499		)	(1,307		)	(3,176		)	(183		)	(658		)	(900		)	(10,723		)
	Exit of phosphorus flame retardants	4,134			5,791			—			236			5,470			1,122			16,753
	business(b)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	(838		)	(750		)	(390		)	(14		)	(211		)	(277		)	(2,480		)
	and other
	Balance at December 31, 2012	(31,484		)	(8,486		)	(38,778		)	(1,079		)	(6,512		)	(17,321		)	(103,660		)
	Amortization	(4,332		)	(995		)	(797		)	(166		)	(647		)	(1,129		)	(8,066		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	(172		)	511			(779		)	(23		)	185			(211		)	(489		)
	and other
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	(35,988	)	$	(8,970	)	$	(40,354	)	$	(1,268	)	$	(6,974	)	$	(18,661	)	$	(112,215	)
	Net Book Value at December 31, 2012	$	53,683		$	18,457		$	9,098		$	5,124		$	2,011		$	6,091		$	94,464
	Net Book Value at December 31, 2013	$	50,438		$	17,937		$	8,389		$	5,108		$	1,364		$	4,967		$	88,203
	(a)	The increase of $1.5 million in Patents and Technology relates to our acquisition of certain patents in 2012 related to catalysts useful in the production of fuel products from renewable feedstocks.
	(b)	In 2012 we reduced intangible assets by $44.1 million and related accumulated amortization by $16.8 million in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business. See Note 19 “Special Items.”
	(c)	Trade names include a gross carrying amount of $10.3 million for an indefinite-lived intangible asset.
Total Estimated Amortization Expense of Other Intangibles for Next Five Fiscal Years	'
	Total estimated amortization expense of other intangibles for the next five fiscal years is as follows (in thousands):
		Estimated
		Amortization
		Expense
	2014	$	8,310
	2015	$	6,554
	2016	$	6,078
	2017	$	5,909
	2018	$	5,711
Total Estimated Amortization Expense of Other Intangibles, Discontinued Operations, for Next Five Fiscal Years	'
		Estimated
		Amortization
		Expense
	2014	$	8,310
	2015	$	6,554
	2016	$	6,078
	2017	$	5,909
	2018	$	5,711

Accrued_Expenses_Tables

Accrued Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]	'
Accrued Expenses	'
	Accrued expenses consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
			December 31,
			2013		2012
	Employee benefits, payroll and related taxes		$	41,955	$	39,442
	Taxes other than income taxes and payroll taxes		23,864		25,025
	Deferred revenue		17,896		13,955
	Accrued sales commissions		7,241		7,893
	Accrued interest payable		7,716		7,816
	Accrued utilities		8,608		9,108
	Reduction in force accruals(a)		39,104		14,428
	Other		44,149		59,879
	Total		$	190,533	$	177,546
	(a)	See Note 19, “Special Items.”

LongTerm_Debt_Tables

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Long-Term Debt	'
	Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	5.10% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $36 at December 31, 2013	$	324,964	$	324,930
	and $70 at December 31, 2012
	4.50% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $2,186 at December 31, 2013	347,814		347,500
	and $2,500 at December 31, 2012
	Commercial paper notes	363,000		—
	Fixed rate foreign borrowings	7,879		19,458
	Variable-rate foreign bank loans	34,910		7,006
	Miscellaneous	297		394
	Total long-term debt	1,078,864		699,288
	Less amounts due within one year	24,554		12,700
	Long-term debt, less current portion	$	1,054,310	$	686,588

Other_Noncurrent_Liabilities_T

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Disclosure Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Abstract]	'
Other Noncurrent Liabilities	'
	Other noncurrent liabilities consist of the following at December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions(a)	$	29,834	$	29,179
	Executive deferred compensation plan obligation	23,030		20,265
	Deferred revenue—long-term	2,444		3,362
	Environmental liabilities(b)	9,213		17,213
	Asset retirement obligations(b)	16,930		16,517
	Other	29,159		27,486
	Total	$	110,610	$	114,022
	(a)	See Note 18, “Income Taxes.”
	(b)	See Note 15, “Commitments and Contingencies.”

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens1

Stock-based Compensation Expense (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Fixed-Price Stock Options	'
	The following table summarizes information about the Company’s fixed-price stock options as of and for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Shares			Weighted-				Weighted-		Aggregate
					Average				Average		Intrinsic Value
					Exercise				Remaining		(in thousands)
					Price				Contractual
									Term (Years)
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012	1,343,261			$	41.78			7.2		$	28,232
	Granted	297,924			65.35
	Exercised	(191,732	)		28.96
	Forfeited	(80,337	)		61.39
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013	1,369,116			$	47.55			7		$	22,795
	Exercisable at December 31, 2013	854,031			$	37.86			6		$	21,977
Weighted-Average Assumptions used to Estimate Fair Value of Each Option Granted	'
	The fair value of each option granted during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
	Dividend yield	1.58		%		1.59		%		1.53		%
	Volatility	33.55		%		34.04		%		33.04		%
	Average expected life (years)	6				6				6
	Risk-free interest rate	2.18		%		2.05		%		3.67		%
	Fair value of options granted	$	19.73			$	20			$	18.42
Activity in Performance Unit Awards	'
	The following table summarizes activity in performance unit awards as of and for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Shares			Weighted
					Average
					Grant Date
					Fair Value
					Per Share
	Nonvested, beginning of period	364,100			$	55.94
	Granted	274,621			61.41
	Vested	(228,001	)		49.77
	Forfeited	(39,317	)		62.53
	Nonvested, end of period	371,403			63.08
Activity in Non-Performance Based Restricted Stock Awards	'
	The following table summarizes activity in non-performance based restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards as of and for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		Shares			Weighted
					Average
					Grant Date
					Fair Value
					Per Share
	Nonvested, beginning of period	142,805			$	51.01
	Granted	53,593			63.17
	Vested	(51,416	)		41.48
	Forfeited	(33,787	)		57.46
	Nonvested, end of period	111,195			59.32

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Activity in Recorded Environmental Liabilities Activity	'
	We had the following activity in our recorded environmental liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Balance, beginning of year	$	20,322		$	12,359		$	13,806
	Expenditures	(3,013		)	(1,451		)	(1,081		)
	Changes in estimates recorded to earnings and other	(902		)	227			(270		)
	Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	—			8,700			—
	Foreign currency translation	192			487			(96		)
	Balance, end of year	16,599			20,322			12,359
	Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses	7,386			3,109			1,433
	Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities	$	9,213		$	17,213		$	10,926
Future Non-Cancelable Minimum Lease Payments for Next Five Years and Thereafter	'
	The following schedule details the future non-cancelable minimum lease payments for the next five years and thereafter (in thousands):
		Minimum
		Operating Lease
		Payments
	2014	$	7,232
	2015	$	5,556
	2016	$	4,142
	2017	$	3,351
	2018	$	2,286
	Thereafter	$	6,060
Letters of Credit and Guarantee Agreements	'
	The following table summarizes our letters of credit and guarantee agreements (in thousands):
		2014			2015			2016			2017		2018		Thereafter
	Letters of credit and other guarantees	$	12,618		$	3,262		$	328		$	3,839	$	232	$	6,291

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Equity [Abstract]	'
Amount of Income Tax (Expense) Benefit Allocated to Component of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'
	The components and activity in Accumulated other comprehensive income (net of deferred income taxes) consisted of the following during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
		Foreign			Net			Unrealized			Other			Total
		Currency			Prior Service			Gain (Loss) on
		Translation			Benefit(b)			Marketable
		Adjustments(a)						Securities
	Balance at December 31, 2010	$	69,605		$	6,422		$	(3	)	$	(1,135	)	$	74,889
	Current period change	(17,269		)	(2,156		)	1			257			(19,167		)
	Tax benefit (expense)	3,909			794			(1		)	(95		)	4,607
	Balance at December 31, 2011	56,245			5,060			(3		)	(973		)	60,329
	Current period change	26,846			(6,533		)	(5		)	217			20,525
	Tax benefit (expense)	2,026			2,462			2			(80		)	4,410
	Balance at December 31, 2012	85,117			989			(6		)	(836		)	85,264
	Current period change	29,539			(781		)	(3		)	217			28,972
	Tax benefit (expense)	1,809			279			1			(80		)	2,009
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	116,465		$	487		$	(8	)	$	(699	)	$	116,245
	(a)	Current period change for the year ended December 31, 2012 includes $12.3 million related to a non-cash write-off of foreign currency translation adjustments from Accumulated other comprehensive income in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business (see Note 19) in accordance with current accounting guidance.
	(b)	Current period change for the year ended December 31, 2012 includes $6.5 million related to a supplemental executive retirement plan settlement in connection with the retirement of our former CEO and executive chairman, and ($4.5) million related to various amendments to certain of our U.S. pension and defined contribution plans that were approved by our Board of Directors in the fourth quarter of 2012.
Components and Activity in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Deferred Income Taxes	'
	In accordance with accounting guidance issued by the FASB in February 2013 which became effective for us in the first quarter of 2013 on a prospective basis, below is information about amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
		Foreign			Net			Unrealized			Other			Total
		Currency			Prior Service			Loss on
		Translation			Benefit			Marketable
		Adjustments						Securities
	Accumulated other comprehensive income -	$	85,117		$	989		$	(6	)	$	(836	)	$	85,264
	balance at December 31, 2012
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before	31,704			—			(2		)	—			31,702
	reclassifications
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated	—			(502		)	—			137			(365		)
	other comprehensive income
	Other comprehensive income (loss), net of	31,704			(502		)	(2		)	137			31,337
	tax
	Other comprehensive income attributable to	(356		)	—			—			—			(356		)
	noncontrolling interests
	Accumulated other comprehensive income -	$	116,465		$	487		$	(8	)	$	(699	)	$	116,245
	balance at December 31, 2013

Pension_Plans_and_Other_Postre1

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Financial Assets Accounted for at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	'
	The following table sets forth the assets of our pension and postretirement plans that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2012 (in thousands):
		31-Dec-12			Quoted Prices in			Quoted Prices in			Unobservable
					Active Markets			Active Markets			Inputs
					for Identical			for Similar			(Level 3)
					Items			Items
					(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	Pension Assets:
	Domestic Equity(a)	$	218,145		$	153,465		$	64,680		$	—
	International Equity(b)	107,647			18,977			88,670			—
	Fixed Income(c)	142,967			51,306			91,661			—
	Absolute Return(d)	80,714			9,885			—			70,829
	Cash	13,830			13,830			—			—
	Total Pension Assets	$	563,303		$	247,463		$	245,011		$	70,829
	Postretirement Assets:
	Fixed Income(c)	$	6,611		$	—		$	6,611		$	—
	(a)	Consists primarily of U.S. equity securities covering a diverse group of companies and U.S. stock funds that primarily track or are actively managed and measured against indices including the S&P 500 and the Russell 2000.
	(b)	Consists primarily of international equity funds which include stocks and debt obligations of non-U.S. entities that primarily track or are actively managed and measured against various MSCI indices.
	(c)	Consists primarily of fixed income mutual funds, corporate bonds, U.S. Treasury notes, other government securities and insurance policies.
	(d)	Consists primarily of funds with holdings in private investment companies. See additional information about the Absolute Return investments below.
	The following table sets forth the assets of our pension and postretirement plans that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
		31-Dec-13			Quoted Prices in			Quoted Prices in			Unobservable
					Active Markets			Active Markets			Inputs
					for Identical			for Similar			(Level 3)
					Items			Items
					(Level 1)			(Level 2)
	Pension Assets:
	Domestic Equity(a)	$	167,627		$	167,627		$	—		$	—
	International Equity(b)	70,609			70,609			—			—
	Fixed Income(c)	248,095			237,151			10,944			—
	Absolute Return(d)	125,137			1,538			—			123,599
	Cash	5,077			5,077			—			—
	Total Pension Assets	$	616,545		$	482,002		$	10,944		$	123,599
	Postretirement Assets:
	Fixed Income(c)	$	5,620		$	—		$	5,620		$	—
	(a)	Consists primarily of U.S. stock funds that track or are actively managed and measured against the S&P 500 index.
	(b)	Consists primarily of an international equity fund which invests in common stocks and other securities whose value is based on an international equity index or an underlying equity security or basket of equity securities.
	(c)	Consists primarily of mutual funds that hold debt obligations issued by governments, corporations, municipalities and other borrowers. Also includes insurance policies.
	(d)	Consists primarily of funds with holdings in private investment companies. See additional information about the Absolute Return investments below.
Changes in Fair Value of Plans Level 3 Assets	'
	The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the plans’ Level 3 assets for the year ended December 31, 2012 (in thousands):
	Absolute Return:	Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Beginning Balance	$	73,025
	Total losses relating to assets sold during the period(a)	(31		)
	Total unrealized gains relating to assets still held at the reporting date(a)	2,311
	Sales	(4,476		)
	Ending Balance	$	70,829
	(a)	These gains (losses) are recognized in the consolidated balance sheets and are included as changes in plan assets in the tables above.
	The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the plans’ Level 3 assets for the year ended December 31, 2013 (in thousands):
	Absolute Return:	Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Beginning Balance	$	70,829
	Total gains relating to assets sold during the period(a)	994
	Total unrealized losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date(a)	(4,511		)
	Purchases	76,643
	Sales	(20,356		)
	Ending Balance	$	123,599
	(a)	These gains (losses) are recognized in the consolidated balance sheets and are included as changes in plan assets in the tables above.
Current Forecast of Benefit Payments, which Reflect Expected Future Service	'
	The current forecast of benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, amounts to (in millions):
		Total			Domestic			Total
		Pension			Pension			Postretirement
		Benefits			Benefits			Benefits
	2014	$	40		$	37.6		$	4.8
	2015	$	39.6		$	37.8		$	4.9
	2016	$	41.2		$	39.4		$	5
	2017	$	43.2		$	40.9		$	4.9
	2018	$	46.2		$	44.5		$	4.8
	2019-2023	$	236.3		$	223		$	21.4
Total Pension Benefits	'
Reconciliation of Benefit Obligations, Plan Assets and Funded Status of Plans	'
	The following provides a reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status of the plans, as well as a summary of significant assumptions for our pension benefit plans (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31, 2013						Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Total Pension			Domestic Pension			Total Pension			Domestic Pension
		Benefits			Benefits			Benefits			Benefits
	Change in benefit obligations:
	Benefit obligation at January 1	$	762,395		$	714,158		$	674,665		$	634,184
	Service cost	13,962			12,177			12,741			11,274
	Interest cost	29,883			28,406			31,636			29,843
	Plan amendments	—			—			1,123			1,123
	Actuarial (gain) loss	(88,392		)	(85,774		)	90,336			83,428
	Benefits paid	(41,132		)	(39,630		)	(49,234		)	(45,694		)
	Employee contributions	320			—			294			—
	Foreign exchange loss	1,546			—			834			—
	Benefit obligation at December 31	$	678,582		$	629,337		$	762,395		$	714,158
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at January 1	$	563,303		$	554,179		$	531,105		$	522,408
	Actual return on plan assets	83,853			83,499			62,577			62,167
	Employer contributions	9,790			7,556			18,299			15,298
	Benefits paid	(41,132		)	(39,630		)	(49,234		)	(45,694		)
	Employee contributions	320			—			294			—
	Foreign exchange gain	411			—			262			—
	Fair value of plan assets at December 31	$	616,545		$	605,604		$	563,303		$	554,179
	Funded status at December 31	$	(62,037	)	$	(23,733	)	$	(199,092	)	$	(159,979	)
		31-Dec-13						31-Dec-12
		Total Pension			Domestic Pension			Total Pension			Domestic Pension
		Benefits			Benefits			Benefits			Benefits
	Amounts recognized in consolidated
	balance sheets:
	Current liabilities (accrued expenses)	$	(4,390	)	$	(2,856	)	$	(3,611	)	$	(2,015	)
	Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits)	(57,647		)	(20,877		)	(195,481		)	(157,964		)
	Net pension liability	$	(62,037	)	$	(23,733	)	$	(199,092	)	$	(159,979	)
	Amounts recognized in accumulated other
	comprehensive income:
	Prior service benefit	$	(70	)	$	(441	)	$	(759	)	$	(1,181	)
	Net amount recognized	$	(70	)	$	(441	)	$	(759	)	$	(1,181	)
	Weighted-average assumption
	percentages:
	Discount rate	5		%	5.14		%	4.04		%	4.1		%
	Rate of compensation increase	2.78		%	3.5		%	3.37		%	3.5		%
Components of Pension Benefits Expense	'
	The components of pension benefits (credit) cost are as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended						Year Ended						Year Ended
		31-Dec-13						31-Dec-12						31-Dec-11
		Total			Domestic			Total			Domestic			Total			Domestic
		Pension			Pension			Pension			Pension			Pension			Pension
		Benefits			Benefits			Benefits			Benefits			Benefits			Benefits
	Service cost	$	13,962		$	12,177		$	12,741		$	11,274		$	12,830		$	11,169
	Interest cost	29,883			28,406			31,636			29,843			32,933			30,945
	Expected return on assets	(39,392		)	(38,975		)	(44,752		)	(44,342		)	(42,186		)	(41,776		)
	Actuarial (gain) loss(a)	(132,916		)	(130,297		)	72,550			65,603			88,809			88,091
	Amortization of prior service	(689		)	(741		)	(757		)	(812		)	(953		)	(1,009		)
	benefit
	Total net pension benefits (credit)	$	(129,152	)	$	(129,430	)	$	71,418		$	61,566		$	91,433		$	87,420
	cost
	Weighted-average assumption
	percentages:
	Discount rate	4.04		%	4.1		%	5.04		%	5.07		%	5.4		%	5.45		%
	Expected return on plan assets	7.2		%	7.25		%	8.19		%	8.25		%	8.19		%	8.25		%
	Rate of compensation increase	3.37		%	3.5		%	3.96		%	4.11		%	3.93		%	4.11		%
Estimated Amounts to Be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	The estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic pension costs during 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
		Total			Domestic
		Pension			Pension
		Benefits			Benefits
	Amortization of prior service benefit	$	(689	)	$	(741	)
Total Postretirement Benefits	'
Reconciliation of Benefit Obligations, Plan Assets and Funded Status of Plans	'
	The following provides a reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status of the plans, as well as a summary of significant assumptions for our postretirement benefit plans (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012
		Total Other			Total Other
		Postretirement			Postretirement
		Benefits			Benefits
	Change in benefit obligations:
	Benefit obligation at January 1	$	70,787		$	68,935
	Service cost	309			274
	Interest cost	2,764			3,172
	Actuarial (gain) loss	(6,165		)	3,032
	Benefits paid	(4,863		)	(4,626		)
	Benefit obligation at December 31	$	62,832		$	70,787
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at January 1	$	6,611		$	7,681
	Actual return on plan assets	368			358
	Employer contributions	3,504			3,198
	Benefits paid	(4,863		)	(4,626		)
	Fair value of plan assets at December 31	$	5,620		$	6,611
	Funded status at December 31	$	(57,212	)	$	(64,176	)
		December 31,
		2013			2012
		Total Other			Total Other
		Postretirement			Postretirement
		Benefits			Benefits
	Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets:
	Current liabilities (accrued expenses)	$	(3,309	)	$	(3,361	)
	Noncurrent liabilities (postretirement benefits)	(53,903		)	(60,815		)
	Net postretirement liability	$	(57,212	)	$	(64,176	)
	Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income:
	Prior service benefit	$	(429	)	$	(525	)
	Net amount recognized	$	(429	)	$	(525	)
	Weighted-average assumption percentages:
	Discount rate	5.03		%	4		%
	Rate of compensation increase	3.5		%	3.5		%
Components of Pension Benefits Expense	'
	The components of postretirement benefits (credit) cost are as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
		Total Other			Total Other			Total Other
		Postretirement			Postretirement			Postretirement
		Benefits			Benefits			Benefits
	Service cost	$	309		$	274		$	263
	Interest cost	2,764			3,172			3,393
	Expected return on assets	(413		)	(488		)	(509		)
	Actuarial (gain) loss(a)	(6,120		)	3,161			3,324
	Amortization of prior service benefit	(95		)	(95		)	(697		)
	Total net postretirement benefits (credit) cost	$	(3,555	)	$	6,024		$	5,774
	Weighted-average assumption percentages:
	Discount rate	4		%	5.1		%	5.3		%
	Expected return on plan assets	7		%	7		%	7		%
	Rate of compensation increase	3.5		%	4		%	4		%
Estimated Amounts to Be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	The estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic postretirement costs during 2014 are as follows (in thousands):
		Total Other
		Postretirement
		Benefits
	Amortization of prior service benefit	$	(95	)

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Components of Income Tax Expense Benefit	'
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments, and current and deferred income tax expense (benefit) are composed of the following (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
	Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity
	in net income of unconsolidated investments:
	Domestic	$	351,731			$	311,195			$	222,361
	Foreign	186,711				57,017				260,170
	Total	$	538,442			$	368,212			$	482,531
	Current income tax expense:
	Federal	$	53,953			$	67,022			$	90,179
	State	2,195				6,107				5,407
	Foreign	18,414				19,672				27,166
	Total	$	74,562			$	92,801			$	122,752
	Deferred income tax expense (benefit):
	Federal	$	69,817			$	928			$	(27,128	)
	State	2,416				648				(626		)
	Foreign	(12,350		)		(13,944		)		9,473
	Total	$	59,883			$	(12,368	)		$	(18,281	)
	Total income tax expense	$	134,445			$	80,433			$	104,471
Significant Differences Between United States Federal Statutory Rate and Effective Income Tax Rate	'
	The significant differences between the U.S. federal statutory rate and the effective income tax rate are as follows:
		% of Income Before Income Taxes
		2013			2012			2011
	Federal statutory rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	State taxes, net of federal tax benefit	0.7			1.4			0.6
	Change in valuation allowance(a)	(2.2	)		3.4			(0.3	)
	Impact of foreign earnings, net(b)	(10.3	)		(6.3	)		(10.9	)
	Depletion	(0.9	)		(1.3	)		(0.9	)
	Revaluation of unrecognized tax benefits/reserve requirements(c)	(0.1	)		(1.7	)		(0.1	)
	Domestic Manufacturing tax deduction(d)	(0.9	)		(3.8	)		(1.2	)
	Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries(b)	2.9			(4.9	)		(0.4	)
	Other items, net	0.8			—			(0.1	)
	Effective income tax rate	25	%		21.8	%		21.7	%
	(a)	During 2013, the Avonmouth, United Kingdom legal entity was dissolved, therefore the corresponding valuation allowance and deferred tax assets were written off. During 2012, a valuation allowance was established for $15.9 million as a result of the planned shut-down of our Avonmouth, United Kingdom legal entity in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business. See Note 19, “Special Items.”
	(b)	In prior years, we designated the undistributed earnings of substantially all of our foreign subsidiaries as indefinitely invested. The benefit of the lower tax rates in the jurisdictions for which we made this designation have been reflected in our effective income tax rate. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, we received distributions of $12.3 million, $56.9 million and $33.8 million, respectively, from various foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures and realized an expense (benefit), net of foreign tax credits, of $2.4 million, $(1.8) million and $5.4 million, respectively, related to the repatriation of these high taxed earnings. We have asserted for all periods being reported, indefinite investment of our share of the income of JBC, a Free Zones company under the laws of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The applicable provisions of the Jordanian law, and applicable regulations thereunder, do not have a termination provision and the exemption is indefinite. As a Free Zones company, JBC is not subject to income taxes on the profits of products exported from Jordan, and currently, substantially all of the profits are from exports. In 2012, undistributed foreign subsidiary earnings were primarily impacted by a $17.4 million change related to the closure of our Avonmouth, United Kingdom site in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business.
	(c)	During 2012, we released various tax reserves primarily related to the expiration of the applicable U.S. federal statute of limitations for 2008 which provided a net benefit of $5.2 million.
	(d)	During 2012, we amended the calculation of the domestic manufacturing tax deduction for the year 2010 and filed the 2011 tax return. As a result, in 2012 we recognized tax benefits of $1.5 million and $3.0 million related to the 2010 and 2011 tax years, respectively.
Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities Recorded on Consolidated Balance Sheets	'
	The deferred income tax assets and liabilities recorded on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 consist of the following (in thousands):
		December 31,
		2013				2012
	Deferred tax assets:
	Postretirement benefits other than pensions	$	300			$	14,900
	Accrued employee benefits	31,089				26,603
	Operating loss carryovers	88,614				74,934
	Pensions	37,172				74,521
	Tax credit carryovers	35,170				37,684
	Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	—				15,583
	Other	15,447				23,280
	Gross deferred tax assets	207,792				267,505
	Valuation allowance	(33,757		)		(49,562		)
	Deferred tax assets	174,035				217,943
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Depreciation	(213,575		)		(193,021		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	(3,104		)		(4,933		)
	Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	(71		)		—
	Other	(19,747		)		(20,348		)
	Deferred tax liabilities	(236,497		)		(218,302		)
	Net deferred tax liabilities	$	(62,462	)		$	(359	)
	Classification in the consolidated balance sheets:
	Current deferred tax assets	$	3,912			$	4,197
	Current deferred tax liabilities	(2,853		)		(5,700		)
	Noncurrent deferred tax assets	65,667				64,512
	Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities	(129,188		)		(63,368		)
	Net deferred tax liabilities	$	(62,462	)		$	(359	)
Changes in Balance of Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance	'
	Changes in the balance of our deferred tax asset valuation allowance are as follows (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
	Balance at January 1	$	(49,562	)		$	(36,419	)		$	(39,802	)
	Additions	(4,359		)		(20,182		)		(6,155		)
	Deductions	20,164				7,039				9,538
	Balance at December 31	$	(33,757	)		$	(49,562	)		$	(36,419	)
Reconciliation of Total Gross Liability Related to Uncertain Tax Positions	'
	The following is a reconciliation of our total gross liability related to uncertain tax positions for 2013, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013				2012				2011
	Balance at January 1	$	28,398			$	29,789			$	20,949
	Additions for tax positions related to prior years	—				4,242				—
	Reductions for tax positions related to prior years	(348		)		—				(1,639		)
	Additions for tax positions related to current year	2,061				3,639				10,802
	Lapses in statutes of limitations	(473		)		(10,057		)		(323		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustment	(495		)		785				—
	Balance at December 31	$	29,143			$	28,398			$	29,789

Special_Items_Tables

Special Items (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Disclosure Special Items Additional Information [Abstract]	'
Restructuring and Other Charges Reported in Consolidated Statements of Income	'
	Restructuring and other charges, net reported in the consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 consist of the following (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Charges in connection with global business realignment(a)	$	33,361		$	—		$	—
	Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business(b)	—			100,777			—
	Defined benefit pension plan curtailment gain, net(c)	—			(4,507		)	—
	Employer contribution to defined contribution plan(c)	—			10,081			—
	Other(d)	—			5,334			—
	Total Restructuring and other charges, net	$	33,361		$	111,685		$	—
	(a)	In connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014, in the fourth quarter of 2013 we initiated a workforce reduction plan which will result in a reduction of approximately 230 employees worldwide. In the fourth quarter of 2013 we recorded charges of $33.4 million ($21.9 million after income taxes) for termination benefits and other costs related to this workforce reduction plan. Payments under this workforce reduction plan are expected to occur through 2014.
	(b)	In the second quarter of 2012 we recorded net charges amounting to $94.7 million ($73.6 million after income taxes), and in the fourth quarter we recorded net charges amounting to $6.1 million ($2.5 million after income taxes), in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business, whose products were sourced mainly at our Avonmouth, United Kingdom and Nanjing, China manufacturing sites. The charges are comprised mainly of non-cash items consisting of net asset write-offs of approximately $57 million and write-offs of foreign currency translation adjustments of approximately $12 million, as well as accruals for future cash costs associated with related severance programs of approximately $22 million, estimated site remediation costs of approximately $9 million, other estimated exit costs of approximately $3 million, partly offset by a gain of approximately $2 million related to the sale of our Nanjing, China manufacturing site. Payments under this restructuring plan are expected to occur through 2014.
	(c)	In the fourth quarter of 2012 we recorded a net curtailment gain of $4.5 million ($2.9 million after income taxes) and a one-time employer contribution to the Company’s defined contribution plan of $10.1 million ($6.4 million after income taxes), both in connection with various amendments to certain of our U.S. pension and defined contribution plans that were approved by our Board of Directors in the fourth quarter of 2012. See Note 17, “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits.”
	(d)	In the fourth quarter of 2012 we recorded charges amounting to $5.3 million ($4.3 million after income taxes) related to changes in product sourcing and other items.
Activity in Recorded Workforce Reduction Liabilities	'
	We had the following activity in our recorded workforce reduction liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands):
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Balance, beginning of year	$	15,898		$	4,780		$	7,074
	Workforce reduction charges(a)	33,361			21,640			1,859
	Payments	(8,915		)	(10,929		)	(4,292		)
	Amount reversed to income(b)	(1,209		)	(45		)	19
	Foreign currency translation	(31		)	452			120
	Balance, end of year	39,104			15,898			4,780
	Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses	39,104			14,428			2,843
	Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities	$	—		$	1,470		$	1,937
	(a)	The year ended December 31, 2013 includes charges amounting to $33.4 million in connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014 as described above.
	The year ended December 31, 2012 includes charges amounting to $21.6 million relating to reduction in force liabilities associated with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business noted above.
	The year ended December 31, 2011 includes charges of $1.9 million related to restructuring programs at various manufacturing locations which are reflected in Cost of goods sold. Payments under these programs have been completed.
	(b)	Amounts reversed to income reflect adjustments based on actual timing and amount of final settlements.

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru1

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value of Long-Term Debt	'
		December 31,
		2013				2012
		Recorded		Fair Value		Recorded		Fair Value
		Amount				Amount
		(In thousands)
	Long-term debt	$	1,078,864	$	1,109,878	$	699,288	$	764,784

Fair_Value_Measurement_Tables

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Financial Assets and Liabilities Accounted for at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	'
	The following tables set forth our financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 (in thousands):
		31-Dec-13		Quoted Prices in		Quoted Prices in		Unobservable
				Active Markets		Active Markets		Inputs
				for Identical		for Similar		(Level 3)
				Items		Items
				(Level 1)		(Level 2)
	Assets:
	Investments under executive deferred compensation	$	23,030	$	23,030	$	—	$	—
	plan (a)
	Equity securities (b)	$	771	$	21	$	—	$	750
	Foreign currency forward contracts (c)	$	161	$	—	$	161	$	—
	Pension assets (d)	$	616,545	$	482,002	$	10,944	$	123,599
	Postretirement assets (d)	$	5,620	$	—	$	5,620	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Obligations under executive deferred compensation	$	23,030	$	23,030	$	—	$	—
	plan (a)
		31-Dec-12		Quoted Prices in		Quoted Prices in		Unobservable
				Active Markets		Active Markets		Inputs
				for Identical		for Similar		(Level 3)
				Items		Items
				(Level 1)		(Level 2)
	Assets:
	Investments under executive deferred compensation	$	20,265	$	20,265	$	—	$	—
	plan (a)
	Equity securities (b)	$	25	$	25	$	—	$	—
	Foreign currency forward contracts (c)	$	262	$	—	$	262	$	—
	Pension assets (d)	$	563,303	$	247,463	$	245,011	$	70,829
	Postretirement assets (d)	$	6,611	$	—	$	6,611	$	—
	Liabilities:
	Obligations under executive deferred compensation	$	20,265	$	20,265	$	—	$	—
	plan (a)
	Foreign currency forward contracts (c)	$	771	$	—	$	771	$	—
	(a)	We maintain an EDCP that was adopted in 2001 and subsequently amended. The purpose of the EDCP is to provide current tax planning opportunities as well as supplemental funds upon the retirement or death of certain of our employees. The EDCP is intended to aid in attracting and retaining employees of exceptional ability by providing them with these benefits. We also maintain a Benefit Protection Trust (the Trust) that was created to provide a source of funds to assist in meeting the obligations of the EDCP, subject to the claims of our creditors in the event of our insolvency. Assets of the Trust are consolidated in accordance with authoritative guidance. The assets of the Trust consist primarily of mutual fund investments (which are accounted for as trading securities and are marked-to-market on a monthly basis through the consolidated statements of income) and cash and cash equivalents. As such, these assets and obligations are classified within Level 1.
	(b)	Primarily consists of private equity securities classified as available-for-sale and are reported in Investments in the consolidated balance sheets. The changes in fair value are reported in Other in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Holdings in private equity securities are typically valued using the net asset valuations provided by the underlying private investment companies and as such are classified within Level 3.
	(c)	As a result of our global operating and financing activities, we are exposed to market risks from changes in foreign currency exchange rates, which may adversely affect our operating results and financial position. When deemed appropriate, we minimize our risks from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations through the use of derivative financial instruments. The foreign currency forward contracts are valued using broker quotations or market transactions in either the listed or over-the-counter markets. As such, these derivative instruments are classified within Level 2.
	(d)	See Note 17 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets.

Operating_Segments_and_Geograp1

Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
					(In thousands)
	Net sales:
	Performance Chemicals	$	1,392,664		$	1,451,247		$	1,534,804
	Catalyst Solutions	1,001,606			1,067,907			1,116,863
	Total net sales	$	2,394,270		$	2,519,154		$	2,651,667
	Segment operating profit:
	Performance Chemicals	$	334,275		$	410,359		$	445,463
	Catalyst Solutions	194,322			230,648			259,116
	Total segment operating profit	528,597			641,007			704,579
	Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments:
	Performance Chemicals	8,875			6,416			7,696
	Catalyst Solutions	22,854			31,651			36,259
	Corporate & other	—			—			(201		)
	Total equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	31,729			38,067			43,754
	Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests:
	Performance Chemicals	(26,663		)	(18,571		)	(28,109		)
	Corporate & other	—			(20		)	26
	Total net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(26,663		)	(18,591		)	(28,083		)
	Segment income:
	Performance Chemicals	316,487			398,204			425,050
	Catalyst Solutions	217,176			262,299			295,375
	Total segment income	533,663			660,503			720,425
	Corporate & other(a)	81,439			(129,559		)	(185,006		)
	Restructuring and other charges(b)	(33,361		)	(111,685		)	—
	Interest and financing expenses	(31,559		)	(32,800		)	(37,574		)
	Other (expenses) income, net	(6,674		)	1,229			357
	Income tax expense	(134,445		)	(80,433		)	(104,471		)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)	4,108			4,281			(1,617		)
	Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$	413,171		$	311,536		$	392,114
	(a)	For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, Corporate and other includes $143.1 million, $(68.0) million and $(89.2) million, respectively, of pension and OPEB plan credits (costs) (including mark-to-market actuarial gains and losses).
	(b)	See Note 19, “Special Items.”
Goodwill and Identifiable Assets by Reportable Segments	'
		As of December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
					(In thousands)
	Identifiable assets:
	Performance Chemicals	$	1,129,838		$	1,110,006		$	1,011,144
	Catalyst Solutions	1,695,120			1,572,883			1,502,984
	Corporate & other	759,839			754,402			689,696
	Total identifiable assets	$	3,584,797		$	3,437,291		$	3,203,824
	Goodwill:
	Performance Chemicals	$	43,603		$	43,519		$	43,098
	Catalyst Solutions	240,600			233,447			230,047
	Total goodwill	$	284,203		$	276,966		$	273,145
Depreciation Amortization and Capital Expenditures by Reportable Segments	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
					(In thousands)
	Depreciation and amortization:
	Performance Chemicals	$	43,472		$	37,831		$	38,285
	Catalyst Solutions	49,656			47,155			45,739
	Discontinued Operations	12,054			12,120			11,394
	Corporate & other	2,188			1,914			1,335
	Total depreciation and amortization	$	107,370		$	99,020		$	96,753
	Capital expenditures:
	Performance Chemicals	$	94,506		$	156,648		$	110,035
	Catalyst Solutions	60,326			122,746			65,308
	Corporate & other	514			1,479			15,231
	Total capital expenditures	$	155,346		$	280,873		$	190,574
Net Sales	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
					(In thousands)
	Net Sales:(a)
	United States	$	933,182		$	959,571		$	1,021,205
	Foreign	1,461,088			1,559,583			1,630,462
	Total	$	2,394,270		$	2,519,154		$	2,651,667
	(a)	No sales in a foreign country exceed 10% of total net sales. Also, net sales are attributed to countries based upon shipments to final destination.
Long-Lived Assets	'
		As of December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
					(In thousands)
	Long-Lived Assets:
	United States	$	748,719		$	735,269		$	652,022
	Netherlands	193,775			192,540			185,799
	Jordan	227,818			209,133			141,725
	Brazil	78,078			85,353			83,452
	Germany	86,175			72,797			70,051
	China	41,858			39,542			64,449
	France	34,523			32,305			28,652
	Korea	86,827			81,962			25,008
	United Kingdom	3,665			—			12,436
	Other foreign countries	47,139			33,598			46,323
	Total	$	1,548,577		$	1,482,499		$	1,309,917
Net Sales to External Customers in Each of Segments	'
	Net sales to external customers by product category in each of the segments consists of the following:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
					(In thousands)
	Performance Chemicals:
	Fire Safety Solutions	$	620,972		$	665,293		$	780,541
	Specialty Chemicals	520,998			519,606			515,511
	Fine Chemistry Services	250,694			266,348			238,752
	Total Performance Chemicals	$	1,392,664		$	1,451,247		$	1,534,804
	Catalyst Solutions:
	Refinery Catalyst Solutions	$	768,837		$	794,933		$	851,482
	Performance Catalyst Solutions	232,769			272,974			265,381
	Total Catalyst Solutions	$	1,001,606		$	1,067,907		$	1,116,863

Quarterly_Financial_Summary_Un1

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Quarterly Financial Summary	'
		First			Second			Third			Fourth
		Quarter			Quarter			Quarter			Quarter
		(In thousands, except per share amounts)
	2013
	Net sales	$	586,597		$	576,842		$	591,196		$	639,635
	Gross profit	$	195,911		$	191,670		$	209,611		$	253,279
	Restructuring and other charges, net(a)	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	33,361
	Net income from continuing operations	$	87,681		$	88,500		$	97,313		$	162,232
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of	1,835			2,628			531			(886		)
	tax)
	Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(5,529		)	(8,389		)	(7,332		)	(5,413		)
	Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$	83,987		$	82,739		$	90,512		$	155,933
	Basic earnings (loss) per share:
	Continuing operations	$	0.93		$	0.95		$	1.1		$	1.93
	Discontinued operations	0.02			0.03			0.01			(0.01		)
		$	0.95		$	0.98		$	1.11		$	1.92
	Shares used to compute basic earnings per share	88,719			84,028			81,385			81,226
	Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
	Continuing operations	$	0.92		$	0.95		$	1.1		$	1.92
	Discontinued operations	0.02			0.03			0.01			(0.01		)
		$	0.94		$	0.98		$	1.11		$	1.91
	Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share	89,236			84,489			81,852			81,713
		First			Second			Third			Fourth
		Quarter			Quarter			Quarter			Quarter
		(In thousands, except per share amounts)
	2012
	Net sales	$	656,615		$	625,494		$	604,368		$	632,677
	Gross profit	$	246,068		$	245,879		$	215,534		$	191,362
	Restructuring and other charges, net(a)	$	—		$	94,703		$	—		$	16,982
	Net income from continuing operations	$	116,226		$	51,987		$	113,800		$	43,833
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of	2,407			1,608			634			(368		)
	tax)
	Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(4,371		)	(3,506		)	(4,975		)	(5,739		)
	Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$	114,262		$	50,089		$	109,459		$	37,726
	Basic earnings (loss) per share:
	Continuing operations	$	1.25		$	0.54		$	1.22		$	0.42
	Discontinued operations	0.03			0.02			0.01			—
		$	1.28		$	0.56		$	1.23		$	0.42
	Shares used to compute basic earnings per share	88,997			89,414			89,327			89,018
	Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
	Continuing operations	$	1.24		$	0.54		$	1.21		$	0.42
	Discontinued operations	0.03			0.02			0.01			—
		$	1.27		$	0.56		$	1.22		$	0.42
	Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share	89,947			90,051			89,879			89,660
	(a)	See Note 19, “Special Items.”

Summary_of_Significant_Account3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended					7 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Aug. 07, 2014
				Minimum	Maximum	Subsequent Event
						segment
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Percentage of interest in joint ventures	'	'	'	20.00%	50.00%	'
Number of operating segments	'	'	'	'	'	2
Deferred costs associated with yearly planed major maintenance, amortization period	'12 months	'	'	'	'	'
Definite-lived intangible assets useful life	'	'	'	'5 years	'40 years	'
Foreign exchange transaction gains (losses)	$10.60	$4.90	$3.60	'	'	'
Maximum remaining expiration period for foreign currency forward contracts	'1 year	'	'	'	'	'
Notional amount	$321.40	$274	'	'	'	'

Summary_of_Significant_Account4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Discontinued Operations (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
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
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)	($886)	$531	$2,628	$1,835	($368)	$634	$1,608	$2,407	$4,108	$4,281	($1,617)
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets - Discontinued Operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	222,146	226,266	217,338
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	5,985	6,381	-1,954
Income tax expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,877	2,100	-337
Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$4,108	$4,281	($1,617)

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa2

Supplemental Cash Flow Information - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Income taxes (net of refunds of $14,296, $1,849 and $4,339 in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively)	$51,772	$112,442	$123,341
Interest (net of capitalization)	29,629	31,144	33,127
Phosphorous Flame Retardant Business Exit	'	'	'
Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Decrease in property, plant and equipment	0	-41,120	0
Decrease in accumulated depreciation	0	-17,870	0
Decrease in other intangibles, net of amortization	0	-27,384	0
Increase in accumulated other comprehensive income	0	12,268	0
Other Restructuring Charges	'	'	'
Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Decrease in property, plant and equipment	0	-5,002	0
Decrease in accumulated depreciation	0	-1,588	0
Pension Curtailment Gains Losses	'	'	'
Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Increase in accumulated other comprehensive income	$0	($4,507)	$0

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa3

Supplemental Cash Flow Information - Additional Information (Parenthetical) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]	'	'	'
Income taxes, refunds	$14,296	$1,849	$4,339

Earnings_Per_Share_Details

Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net income from continuing operations	$162,232	$97,313	$88,500	$87,681	$43,833	$113,800	$51,987	$116,226	$435,726	$325,846	$421,814
Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-26,663	-18,591	-28,083
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$409,063	$307,255	$393,731
Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share	81,226	81,385	84,028	88,719	89,018	89,327	89,414	88,997	83,839	89,189	90,522
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$1.93	$1.10	$0.95	$0.93	$0.42	$1.22	$0.54	$1.25	$4.88	$3.44	$4.35
Incremental shares under stock compensation plans	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	483	695	1,000
Total shares	81,713	81,852	84,489	89,236	89,660	89,879	90,051	89,947	84,322	89,884	91,522
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$1.92	$1.10	$0.95	$0.92	$0.42	$1.21	$0.54	$1.24	$4.85	$3.42	$4.30

Earnings_Per_Share_Additional_

Earnings Per Share - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Feb. 12, 2013

Oct. 13, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

10-May-13

Dec. 31, 2013

10-May-13

Dec. 19, 2013

Feb. 03, 2014

Feb. 03, 2014

Feb. 03, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Common Stock

Common Stock

Common Stock

Maximum

Maximum

Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement

Total

Total

Fair Value

Final

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Restricted Stock

Jp Morgan

Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement

Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement

Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement

Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement

Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement

Total

Fair Value

Jp Morgan

Jp Morgan

Jp Morgan

Jp Morgan

Merrill Lynch

Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement

Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement

tranche

Merrill Lynch

Merrill Lynch

Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Common stock equivalents not included in computation of diluted earnings per share (in dollars per shares)

468,120

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of shares containing nonforfeitable rights to dividends

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

13,133

Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)

15,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock repurchase program, number of shares authorized to be repurchased (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

15,000,000

5,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

1,500,000

'

'

'

Repurchases of common stock

$582,298,000

$63,575,000

$178,132,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

$450,000,000

'

'

'

'

$50,000,000

'

'

Repurchase of common stock shares (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5,680,921

7,064,932

'

1,384,011

'

623,248

'

'

Stock repurchased during period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

360,000,000

'

'

'

40,000,000

'

Forward purchase contract adjustment to fair value (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$1.01

'

'

'

'

$0.77

'

'

'

Share price (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$30

'

'

'

Shares repurchased (in shares)

'

'

'

9,198,056

1,092,767

3,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares available for repurchase

5,939,594

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock repurchase amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

50,000,000

'

'

'

Number of tranches

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2

'

'

'

Share repurchase amount per tranche

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$25,000,000

'

'

'

Other_Accounts_Receivable_Deta

Other Accounts Receivable (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Receivables [Abstract]	'	'
Value added tax/consumption tax	$21,956	$22,398
Other	23,138	21,446
Total	$45,094	$43,844

Inventories_Additional_Informa

Inventories - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Percentage of LIFO inventory	28.00%	30.00%
Inventories stated on LIFO basis	$121.90	$126.60
Excess of replacement costs over stated LIFO value	$41.70	$51.40

Other_Current_Assets_Detail

Other Current Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Other Assets [Abstract]	'		'
Deferred income taxes—current	$3,912	[1]	$4,197	[1]
Income tax receivables	26,310		26,208
Prepaid expenses	47,447		48,250
Total	$77,669		$78,655
[1]	See Note 18, “Income Taxes.”

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_a

Property, Plant and Equipment, at Cost (Detail) (USD $)

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

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Land improvements

Land improvements

Buildings and improvements

Buildings and improvements

Machinery and equipment

Machinery and equipment

Machinery and equipment (major plant components)

Machinery and equipment (major plant components)

Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs

Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant and equipment, useful life

'

'

'5 years

'30 years

'10 years

'45 years

'2 years

'19 years

'20 years

'45 years

'7 years

'60 years

Land

$63,153

$61,123

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Land improvements

52,452

51,218

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Buildings and improvements

235,929

198,260

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Machinery and equipment

1,731,247

[1]

1,603,533

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Machinery and equipment (major plant components)

688,284

[2]

586,433

[2]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs

85,514

83,089

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs

115,505

234,948

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total

$2,972,084

$2,818,604

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

[1]

Consists primarily of (1) short-lived production equipment components, office and building equipment and other equipment with estimated lives ranging 2 – 7 years, and (2) production process equipment (intermediate components) with estimated lives ranging 8 – 19 years.

[2]

Consists primarily of (1) production process equipment (major unit components) with estimated lives ranging 20 – 29 years, and (2) production process equipment (infrastructure and other) with estimated lives ranging 30 – 45 years.

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_a1

Property, Plant and Equipment, at Cost (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Minimum | Short-lived production equipment components, office and building equipment and other equipment	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	'2 years
Minimum | Production process equipment (intermediate components)	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	'8 years
Minimum | Production process equipment (major unit components)	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	'20 years
Minimum | Production process equipment (infrastructure and other)	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	'30 years
Maximum | Short-lived production equipment components, office and building equipment and other equipment	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	'7 years
Maximum | Production process equipment (intermediate components)	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	'19 years
Maximum | Production process equipment (major unit components)	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	'29 years
Maximum | Production process equipment (infrastructure and other)	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	'45 years

Recovered_Sheet1

Property, Plant and Equipment - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
					Phosphorous Flame Retardant Business Exit	Phosphorous Flame Retardant Business Exit	Phosphorous Flame Retardant Business Exit	Phosphorous Flame Retardant Business Exit	Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets - Discontinued Operations	Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets - Discontinued Operations	Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets - Discontinued Operations
								Property Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Depreciation	'	$99,300,000	$88,300,000	$83,600,000	'	'	'	'	$8,600,000	$8,700,000	$8,000,000
Interest capitalized on significant capital projects	'	6,100,000	5,800,000	2,400,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Phosphorous flame retardants business, net asset write off	'	'	'	'	'	57,000,000	'	30,900,000	'	'	'
Cash proceeds from divestitures	7,700,000	0	9,646,000	0	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Amount of gain related to the sale of Nanjing, China manufacturing site	'	'	'	'	2,000,000	'	2,000,000	'	'	'	'
Cash proceeds from sale of land	1,900,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Cash payments related to acquisitions	'	'	'	$6,500,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'

Investment_Balances_Detail

Investment Balances (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Investments [Abstract]	'	'
Joint ventures	$187,843	$185,928
Nonmarketable securities	534	923
Marketable equity securities	23,801	20,290
Total	$212,178	$207,141

Investments_Ownership_Position

Investments - Ownership Positions in Significant Unconsolidated (Detail)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Nippon Aluminum Alkyls	'	'	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Percentage of interest in joint ventures	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG	'	'	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Percentage of interest in joint ventures	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Nippon Ketjen Company Limited	'	'	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Percentage of interest in joint ventures	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Eurecat S.A.	'	'	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Percentage of interest in joint ventures	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Fabrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A.	'	'	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Percentage of interest in joint ventures	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Stannica, LLC	'	'	'
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Percentage of interest in joint ventures	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%

Investments_Summary_of_Assets_

Investments - Summary of Assets, Liabilities and Results of Operations for Significant Unconsolidated Joint Ventures (Detail) (Significant Unconsolidated Joint Ventures, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Significant Unconsolidated Joint Ventures	'	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'	'
Current assets	$313,446	$343,129	'
Noncurrent assets	198,776	212,587	'
Total assets	512,222	555,716	'
Current liabilities	100,469	129,105	'
Noncurrent liabilities	77,734	76,422	'
Total liabilities	178,203	205,527	'
Net sales	598,459	601,233	672,859
Gross profit	169,406	165,650	189,691
Income before income taxes	101,652	105,329	132,399
Net income	$71,294	$71,561	$88,414

Investments_Additional_Informa

Investments - Additional Information (Detail)

12 Months Ended

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, 2012

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, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Significant Unconsolidated Joint Venture

Significant Unconsolidated Joint Venture

Significant Unconsolidated Joint Venture

Joint Venture Saudi Organometallic Chemicals Company

Joint Venture Saudi Organometallic Chemicals Company

Joint Venture Saudi Organometallic Chemicals Company

Eurecat S.A.

Eurecat S.A.

Eurecat S.A.

Fabrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A.

Fabrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A.

Fabrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A.

Stannica, LLC

Stannica, LLC

Stannica, LLC

Nippon Aluminum Alkyls

Nippon Aluminum Alkyls

Nippon Aluminum Alkyls

Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG

Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG

Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG

Nippon Ketjen Company Limited

Nippon Ketjen Company Limited

Nippon Ketjen Company Limited

Eurecat S.A.

Eurecat S.A.

Eurecat S.A.

Stannica Llc

Stannica Llc

Benefit Protection Trust

Benefit Protection Trust

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

EUR (€)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Schedule of Investments [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Investment in significant unconsolidated joint ventures

'

'

'

$172,900,000

$170,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)

31,729,000

38,067,000

43,754,000

31,500,000

37,000,000

43,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Undistributed earnings from equity method investees

'

'

'

117,100,000

106,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Dividends received from unconsolidated investments

21,632,000

26,908,000

23,685,000

20,500,000

25,600,000

22,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures exceeded the amount of underlying equity in net assets

8,400,000

12,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Excess amount paid for joint ventures remaining to be amortized

1,400,000

1,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Carrying value of unconsolidated investment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5,500,000

6,600,000

'

'

Marketable equity securities

23,801,000

20,290,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

23,000,000

20,300,000

Long-term advances to joint venture

0

24,959,000

0

'

'

'

'

22,500,000

'

2,600,000

2,500,000

1,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of interest in joint ventures

'

'

'

'

'

'

50.00%

'

'

50.00%

'

'

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

'

'

'

'

Interest rate margin over LIBOR

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.28%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest rate percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.52%

1.58%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term advances to joint venture, maturity date

'

'

'

'

'

'

31-Dec-21

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Capital contributions to SOCC

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$10,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other_Assets_Detail

Other Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]	'		'
Deferred income taxes-noncurrent	$65,667	[1]	$64,512	[1]
Assets related to unrecognized tax benefits	25,730	[1]	25,788	[1]
Long-term advances to joint ventures	25,124	[2]	25,017	[2]
Other	43,708		39,519
Total	$160,229		$154,836
[1]	See Note 18, “Income Taxes.”
[2]	See Note 8, “Investments.”

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles2

Goodwill and Other Intangibles - Changes in Goodwill by Operating Segment (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'	'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	$276,966	$273,145
Foreign currency translation adjustments	7,237	3,821
Goodwill, Ending Balance	284,203	276,966
Performance Chemicals	'	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'	'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	43,519	43,098
Foreign currency translation adjustments	84	421
Goodwill, Ending Balance	43,603	43,519
Catalyst Solutions	'	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'	'
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	233,447	230,047
Foreign currency translation adjustments	7,153	3,400
Goodwill, Ending Balance	$240,600	$233,447

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles3

Goodwill and Other Intangibles - Other Intangibles (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance	$198,124		$237,491		'
Acquisitions	'		1,500	[1]	'
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	'		-44,137	[2]	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	2,294		3,270		'
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance	200,418		198,124		237,491
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance	-103,660		-107,210		'
Amortization	-8,066		-10,723		-13,100
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	'		16,753	[2]	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	-489		-2,480		'
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance	-112,215		-103,660		-107,210
Net Book Value	88,203		94,464		'
Customer Lists and Relationships	'		'		'
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance	85,167		100,078		'
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	'		-16,189	[2]	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	1,259		1,278		'
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance	86,426		85,167		'
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance	-31,484		-30,281		'
Amortization	-4,332		-4,499		'
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	'		4,134		'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	-172		-838		'
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance	-35,988		-31,484		'
Net Book Value	50,438		53,683		'
Trade Names	'		'		'
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance	26,943	[3]	45,399	[3]	'
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	'		-19,441	[2],[3]	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	-36	[3]	985	[3]	'
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance	26,907	[3]	26,943	[3]	'
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance	-8,486	[3]	-12,220	[3]	'
Amortization	-995	[3]	-1,307	[3]	'
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	'		5,791	[3]	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	511	[3]	-750	[3]	'
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance	-8,970	[3]	-8,486	[3]	'
Net Book Value	17,937	[3]	18,457	[3]	'
Patents and Technology	'		'		'
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance	47,876		45,973		'
Acquisitions	'		1,500	[1]	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	867		403		'
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance	48,743		47,876		'
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance	-38,778		-35,212		'
Amortization	-797		-3,176		'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	-779		-390		'
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance	-40,354		-38,778		'
Net Book Value	8,389		9,098		'
Land Use Rights	'		'		'
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance	6,203		8,098		'
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	'		-1,915	[2]	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	173		20		'
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance	6,376		6,203		'
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance	-1,079		-1,118		'
Amortization	-166		-183		'
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	'		236		'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	-23		-14		'
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance	-1,268		-1,079		'
Net Book Value	5,108		5,124		'
Manufacturing Contracts and Supply/Service Agreements	'		'		'
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance	8,523		13,782		'
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	'		-5,470	[2]	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	-185		211		'
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance	8,338		8,523		'
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance	-6,512		-11,113		'
Amortization	-647		-658		'
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	'		5,470		'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	185		-211		'
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance	-6,974		-6,512		'
Net Book Value	1,364		2,011		'
Other	'		'		'
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance	23,412		24,161		'
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	'		-1,122	[2]	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	216		373		'
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance	23,628		23,412		'
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance	-17,321		-17,266		'
Amortization	-1,129		-900		'
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	'		1,122		'
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	-211		-277		'
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance	-18,661		-17,321		'
Net Book Value	$4,967		$6,091		'
[1]	The increase of $1.5 million in Patents and Technology relates to our acquisition of certain patents in 2012 related to catalysts useful in the production of fuel products from renewable feedstocks.
[2]	In 2012 we reduced intangible assets by $44.1 million and related accumulated amortization by $16.8 million in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business. See Note 19 “Special Items.”
[3]	Trade names include a gross carrying amount of $10.3 million for an indefinite-lived intangible asset.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles4

Goodwill and Other Intangibles - Other Intangibles (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
			Trade Names	Phosphorous Flame Retardant Business Exit
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'	'
Acquisitions	$1,500,000	[1]	'	'
Intangible assets, reduction	44,137,000	[2]	'	44,100,000
Intangible assets, accumulated amortization, reduction	16,753,000	[2]	'	16,800,000
Indefinite-lived intangible asset, gross carrying amount	'		$10,300,000	'
[1]	The increase of $1.5 million in Patents and Technology relates to our acquisition of certain patents in 2012 related to catalysts useful in the production of fuel products from renewable feedstocks.
[2]	In 2012 we reduced intangible assets by $44.1 million and related accumulated amortization by $16.8 million in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business. See Note 19 “Special Items.”

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles5

Goodwill and Other Intangibles - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Amortization of other intangible assets	$8,066		$10,723		$13,100
Minimum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'5 years		'		'
Maximum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'40 years		'		'
Customer Lists and Relationships	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Amortization of other intangible assets	4,332		4,499		'
Customer Lists and Relationships | Minimum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'15 years		'		'
Customer Lists and Relationships | Maximum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'25 years		'		'
Trade Names	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Amortization of other intangible assets	995	[1]	1,307	[1]	'
Trade Names | Minimum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'11 years		'		'
Trade Names | Maximum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'35 years		'		'
Patents and Technology	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Amortization of other intangible assets	797		3,176		'
Patents and Technology | Minimum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'17 years		'		'
Patents and Technology | Maximum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'20 years		'		'
Land Use Rights	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Amortization of other intangible assets	166		183		'
Land Use Rights | Minimum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'37 years		'		'
Land Use Rights | Maximum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'40 years		'		'
Manufacturing Contracts and Supply/Service Agreements	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Amortization of other intangible assets	647		658		'
Manufacturing Contracts and Supply/Service Agreements | Minimum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'6 years		'		'
Manufacturing Contracts and Supply/Service Agreements | Maximum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'12 years		'		'
Other	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Amortization of other intangible assets	1,129		900		'
Other | Minimum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'5 years		'		'
Other | Maximum	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	'35 years		'		'
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets - Discontinued Operations	'		'		'
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'		'
Amortization of other intangible assets	$3,500		$3,400		$3,400
[1]	Trade names include a gross carrying amount of $10.3 million for an indefinite-lived intangible asset.

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangibles6

Goodwill and Other Intangibles - Total Estimated Amortization Expense of Other Intangibles for Next Five Fiscal Years (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
2014	$8,310
2015	6,554
2016	6,078
2017	5,909
2018	$5,711

Accrued_Expenses_Detail

Accrued Expenses (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]	'		'		'
Employee benefits, payroll and related taxes	$41,955		$39,442		'
Taxes other than income taxes and payroll taxes	23,864		25,025		'
Deferred revenue	17,896		13,955		'
Accrued sales commissions	7,241		7,893		'
Accrued interest payable	7,716		7,816		'
Accrued utilities	8,608		9,108		'
Reduction in force accruals	39,104	[1]	14,428	[1]	2,843
Other	44,149		59,879		'
Total	$190,533		$177,546		'
[1]	See Note 19, “Special Items.”

LongTerm_Debt_Detail

Long-Term Debt (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Commercial paper notes	$363,000	$0
Fixed rate foreign borrowings	7,879	19,458
Variable-rate foreign bank loans	34,910	7,006
Miscellaneous	297	394
Total long-term debt	1,078,864	699,288
Less amounts due within one year	24,554	12,700
Long-term debt, less current portion	1,054,310	686,588
5.10% Senior Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Senior notes	324,964	324,930
4.50% Senior Notes	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Senior notes	$347,814	$347,500

LongTerm_Debt_Parenthetical_De

Long-Term Debt (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jan. 20, 2005	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 10, 2010
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	5.10% Senior Notes	5.10% Senior Notes	5.10% Senior Notes	4.50% Senior Notes	4.50% Senior Notes	4.50% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unamortized discount	$36	$70	'	$2,186	$2,500	'
Debt instrument, interest rate	5.10%	5.10%	5.10%	4.50%	4.50%	4.50%

LongTerm_Debt_Additional_Infor

Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Detail)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2005

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Jan. 20, 2005

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 10, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

29-May-13

Jan. 22, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Feb. 07, 2014

Feb. 07, 2014

Feb. 07, 2014

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Joint Venture Jordan Bromine Company Limited

Joint Venture Jordan Bromine Company Limited

Joint Venture Jordan Bromine Company Limited

Joint Venture Jordan Bromine Company Limited

Joint Venture Jordan Bromine Company Limited

Joint Venture Jordan Bromine Company Limited

Commercial Paper

5.10% Senior Notes

5.10% Senior Notes

5.10% Senior Notes

5.10% Senior Notes

4.50% Senior Notes

4.50% Senior Notes

4.50% Senior Notes

4.50% Senior Notes

Domestic Financial Institution Agreement

Domestic Financial Institution Agreement

Domestic Financial Institution Agreement

Foreign Credit Line U.S. Dollar- Euro Denominated Borrowings

Foreign Credit Line U.S. Dollar- Euro Denominated Borrowings

Yen Denominated Credit Lines

Yen Denominated Credit Lines

Yen Denominated Credit Lines

Other Foreign Credit Lines

Other Foreign Credit Lines

Minimum

Maximum

Maximum

Subsequent Event

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

Revolving Credit Facility

USD ($)

USD ($)

Unsecured non-interest bearing loan

Construction Borrowings Related To Foreign Plant

Construction Borrowings Related To Foreign Plant

Short-term Debt

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

JPY (¥)

USD ($)

Foreign Subsidiaries

Joint Venture Jordan Bromine Company Limited

Joint Venture Jordan Bromine Company Limited

Commercial Paper

Jp Morgan

USD ($)

Minimum

Maximum

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Construction Borrowings Related To Foreign Plant

Construction Borrowings Related To Foreign Plant

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Minimum

Maximum

payment

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2014

'

$24,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2015

'

327,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2016

'

379,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2017

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2018

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, thereafter

'

350,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt maturity period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'21 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'10 years

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

Revolving credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

60,000,000

'

'

48,000,000

48,000,000

42,800,000

4,500,000,000

'

93,300,000

80,100,000

'

'

'

'

750,000,000

'

'

750,000,000

'

'

Total spreads and fees

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.98%

0.90%

1.40%

1.00%

0.90%

1.50%

Debt covenant maximum debt to EBITDA

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.5

'

'

Debt covenant

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

20.00%

'

'

Gross debt

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

750,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Commercial paper notes

'

363,000,000

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

363,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Weighted average interest rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.23%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fees and expenses related to new agreement

2,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Principal amount of debt

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

325,000,000

'

'

'

350,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt instrument, interest rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.59%

'

'

5.10%

5.10%

5.10%

'

4.50%

4.50%

4.50%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.09%

5.30%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest rate of debt, effective percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5.19%

'

'

'

4.70%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Maturity date of debt

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1-Feb-15

'

'

'

15-Dec-20

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Average interest rate on borrowings

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.89%

1.49%

1.43%

'

'

0.52%

0.52%

1.07%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Borrowings outstanding under the credit facility

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

16,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Revolving senior credit facility, remaining borrowings

'

387,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Additional Borrowing Capacity

'

250,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

250,000,000

'

'

Foreign currency denominated debt

'

1,078,864,000

699,288,000

26,400,000

26,400,000

'

7,900,000

13,500,000

18,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Non-interest loan from other shareholders

'

'

'

'

'

6,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional borrowing capacity amount

'

'

'

6,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of Semi Annual Coupon Payments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

20

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notional amount

'

$321,400,000

$274,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$325,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fixed interest rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.28%

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other_Noncurrent_Liabilities_D

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Disclosure Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Abstract]	'		'		'
Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions	$29,834	[1]	$29,179	[1]	'
Executive deferred compensation plan obligation	23,030		20,265		'
Deferred revenue—long-term	2,444		3,362		'
Environmental liabilities	9,213	[2]	17,213	[2]	10,926
Asset retirement obligations	16,930	[2]	16,517	[2]	'
Other	29,159		27,486		'
Total	$110,610		$114,022		'
[1]	See Note 18, “Income Taxes.”
[2]	See Note 15, “Commitments and Contingencies.”

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens2

Stock-based Compensation Expense - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Apr. 20, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

Apr. 20, 2010

Dec. 31, 2013

7-May-13

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Minimum

Maximum

Albemarle Corporation 2008 Incentive Plan

Albemarle Corporation 2008 Incentive Plan

Albemarle Corporation 2008 Incentive Plan

Non Employee Directors, Plan

Non Employee Directors, Plan

Non Employee Directors, Plan

Stock Options

Performance Unit Awards

Performance Unit Awards

Performance Unit Awards

Performance Unit Awards

Performance Unit Awards

Stock Options

Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units

Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units

Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units

Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units

Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units

Two Year Measurement Period

One Year Vesting Period Thereafter

Maximum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Share Based Compensation [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based awards vesting period

'

'

'

'1 year

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'1 year

'5 years

'

'

Stock options, term

'

'

'

'

'10 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of earnings

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

200.00%

'

'

0.00%

200.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Specific performance criteria period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'1 year

'2 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of earning distributed

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

50.00%

50.00%

Stock options granted during the period (in shares)

297,924

263,200

401,500

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Increase in number of shares available for issuance under incentive plan (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

4,470,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of shares available for issuance under incentive plan (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7,470,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reduced incentive plan awards number of shares for each share (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

1.6

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Common stock (in shares)

150,000,000

150,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair market value of shares

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$150,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares available for grant (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,587,539

'

485,600

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock-based compensation

10,164,000

15,211,000

27,069,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Tax benefits recognized related to stock based compensation

3,700,000

5,600,000

10,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Intrinsic value of stock options exercised

7,000,000

37,400,000

7,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,400,000

'

'

'

'

6,100,000

3,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Remaining weighted average period for recognition of compensation cost years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2 years 3 months 18 days

'1 year 1 month 6 days

'

'

'

'

'2 years 3 months 18 days

'1 year 7 months 6 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

Proceeds from stock option exercised

5,553,000

21,148,000

2,230,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Tax benefit from stock option exercised

2,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value vested, total

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

14,500,000

18,300,000

200,000

'

'

'

3,200,000

7,400,000

9,400,000

'

'

'

'

Granted (in dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

16,900,000

19,700,000

10,700,000

'

'

'

3,400,000

2,900,000

3,700,000

'

'

'

'

Fair value of grants in period total

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$8,900,000

$6,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of common stock share for each performance unit (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens3

Stock-based Compensation Expense - Fixed-Price Stock Options (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Shares	'	'
Outstanding Shares,Beginning Balance (in shares)	1,343,261	'
Granted (in shares)	297,924	'
Exercised (in shares)	-191,732	'
Forfeited (in shares)	-80,337	'
Outstanding Shares, Ending Balance (in shares)	1,369,116	1,343,261
Exercisable, Ending Balance (in shares)	854,031	'
Weighted-Average Exercise Price	'	'
Outstanding Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance (in dollars per share)	$41.78	'
Granted (in dollars per share)	$65.35	'
Exercised (in dollars per share)	$28.96	'
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	$61.39	'
Outstanding Weighted-Average Exercise (in dollars per share)Price, Ending Balance	$47.55	$41.78
Exercisable Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Ending Balance (in dollars per share)	$37.86	'
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)	'	'
Weighted-Averaged Remaining Contractual Term, Beginning Balance	'7 years	'7 years 2 months 12 days
Weighted-Averaged Remaining Contractual Term, Ending Balance	'7 years	'7 years 2 months 12 days
Exercisable Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Ending Balance	'6 years	'
Aggregate Intrinsic Value	'	'
Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Beginning Balance	$28,232	'
Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Ending Balance	22,795	28,232
Exercisable Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Ending Balance	$21,977	'

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens4

Stock-based Compensation Expense - Weighted-Average Assumptions used to Estimate Fair Value of Each Option Granted (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]	'	'	'
Dividend yield	1.58%	1.59%	1.53%
Volatility	33.55%	34.04%	33.04%
Average expected life (years)	'6 years	'6 years	'6 years
Risk-free interest rate	2.18%	2.05%	3.67%
Fair value of options granted	$19.73	$20	$18.42

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens5

Stock-based Compensation Expense - Activity in Performance Unit Awards (Detail) (Performance Unit Awards, USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Performance Unit Awards	'
Shares	'
Nonvested, beginning of period (in shares)	364,100
Granted (in shares)	274,621
Vested (in shares)	-228,001
Forfeited (in shares)	-39,317
Nonvested, end of period (in shares)	371,403
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	'
Nonvested, beginning of period (in dollars per share)	$55.94
Granted (in dollars per share)	$61.41
Vested (in dollars per share)	$49.77
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	$62.53
Nonvested, end of period (in dollars per share)	$63.08

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens6

Stock-based Compensation Expense - Activity in Non-Performance Based Restricted Stock Awards (Detail) (Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units	'	'	'
Shares	'	'	'
Nonvested, beginning of period (in shares)	142,805	'	'
Granted (in shares)	53,593	'	'
Granted (in dollars per share)	$63.17	'	'
Vested (in shares)	-51,416	'	'
Forfeited (in shares)	-33,787	'	'
Nonvested, end of period (in shares)	111,195	142,805	'
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	'	'	'
Nonvested, beginning of period (in dollars per share)	$51.01	'	'
Granted (in dollars per share)	$3.40	$2.90	$3.70
Vested (in dollars per share)	$41.48	'	'
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	$57.46	'	'
Nonvested, end of period (in dollars per share)	$59.32	$51.01	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Potential revision on future environmental remediation costs before tax	'	$17,000,000	'	'	'
Estimated site remediation liabilities	'	16,599,000	20,322,000	12,359,000	13,806,000
Exit of phosphorous flame retardants business	8,700,000	0	8,700,000	0	'
Rental expenses related to capital and operating lease	'	30,700,000	33,100,000	30,900,000	'
Asset retirement obligation relating to property plant and equipment	'	16,900,000	16,500,000	'	'
Bergheim, Germany Site	'	'	'	'	'
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Estimated site remediation liabilities	'	7,300,000	'	'	'
Pledged land and housing facilities	'	6,200,000	'	'	'
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets - Discontinued Operations	'	'	'	'	'
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Rental expenses related to capital and operating lease	'	$1,600,000	$1,400,000	$1,600,000	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies - Activity in Recorded Environmental Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward]	'	'		'		'
Balance, beginning of year	'	$20,322		$12,359		$13,806
Expenditures	'	-3,013		-1,451		-1,081
Changes in estimates recorded to earnings and other	'	-902		227		-270
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	8,700	0		8,700		0
Foreign currency translation	'	192		487		-96
Balance, end of year	'	16,599		20,322		12,359
Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses	'	7,386		3,109		1,433
Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities	'	$9,213	[1]	$17,213	[1]	$10,926
[1]	See Note 15, “Commitments and Contingencies.”

Commitments_and_Contingencies_3

Commitments and Contingencies - Future Non-Cancelable Minimum Lease Payments for Next Five Years and Thereafter (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Minimum Operating Lease Payments	'
2014	$7,232
2015	5,556
2016	4,142
2017	3,351
2018	2,286
Thereafter	$6,060

Commitments_and_Contingencies_4

Commitments and Contingencies - Letters of Credit and Guarantee Agreements (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
2014	$12,618
2015	3,262
2016	328
2017	3,839
2018	232
Thereafter	$6,291

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Components and Activity in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Net of Deferred Income Taxes) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'		'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Beginning Balance	$85,264	$60,329		$74,889
Current period change	28,972	20,525		-19,167
Tax benefit (expense)	2,009	4,410		4,607
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Ending Balance	116,245	85,264		60,329
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments	'	'		'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'		'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Beginning Balance	85,117	56,245		69,605
Current period change	29,539	26,846	[1]	-17,269
Tax benefit (expense)	1,809	2,026		3,909
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Ending Balance	116,465	85,117		56,245
Net Prior Service Benefit	'	'		'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'		'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Beginning Balance	989	5,060		6,422
Current period change	-781	-6,533	[2]	-2,156
Tax benefit (expense)	279	2,462		794
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Ending Balance	487	989		5,060
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Marketable Securities	'	'		'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'		'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Beginning Balance	-6	-3		-3
Current period change	-3	-5		1
Tax benefit (expense)	1	2		-1
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Ending Balance	-8	-6		-3
Other	'	'		'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'		'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Beginning Balance	-836	-973		-1,135
Current period change	217	217		257
Tax benefit (expense)	-80	-80		-95
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Ending Balance	($699)	($836)		($973)
[1]	Current period change for the year ended December 31, 2012 includes $12.3 million related to a non-cash write-off of foreign currency translation adjustments from Accumulated other comprehensive income in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business (see Note 19) in accordance with current accounting guidance.
[2]	Current period change for the year ended December 31, 2012 includes $6.5 million related to a supplemental executive retirement plan settlement in connection with the retirement of our former CEO and executive chairman, and ($4.5) million related to various amendments to certain of our U.S. pension and defined contribution plans that were approved by our Board of Directors in the fourth quarter of 2012.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv3

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Components and Activity in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Net of Deferred Income Taxes) (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Write-offs of foreign currency translation adjustments of phosphorous flame retardants business	$12,300,000
Amendment amount of certain U.S. pension and defined contribution plans that were approved by Board of Directors	-4,500,000
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Supplemental Employee Retirement plan settlement amount in connection with former CEO and executive chairman	$6,500,000

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv4

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Reclassifications in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Beginning Balance	$85,264	$60,329	$74,889
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	31,702	'	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	-365	'	'
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	31,337	'	'
Other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-356	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Ending Balance	116,245	60,329	74,889
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Beginning Balance	85,117	56,245	69,605
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	31,704	'	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	0	'	'
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	31,704	'	'
Other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-356	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Ending Balance	116,465	56,245	69,605
Net Prior Service Benefit	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Beginning Balance	989	5,060	6,422
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	0	'	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	-502	'	'
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	-502	'	'
Other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Ending Balance	487	5,060	6,422
Unrealized Loss on Marketable Securities	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Beginning Balance	-6	'	'
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	-2	'	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	0	'	'
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	-2	'	'
Other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Ending Balance	-8	'	'
Other	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Beginning Balance	-836	'	'
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	0	'	'
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income	137	'	'
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	137	'	'
Other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive income - Total - Ending Balance	($699)	'	'

Pension_Plans_and_Other_Postre2

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

1 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

7 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2005

Jan. 01, 2007

Jan. 01, 2007

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Aug. 07, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

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, 2013

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

Jun. 30, 2012

Jun. 30, 2012

Minimum

Maximum

Traditional Long Equity Holdings

Diversified Asset Classes

Domestic Pension Benefits

Domestic Pension Benefits

Domestic Pension Benefits

Domestic Pension Benefits

Total Postretirement Benefits

Total Postretirement Benefits

Total Postretirement Benefits

Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit

Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit

Total Pension Benefits

Total Pension Benefits

Total Pension Benefits

Domestic Nonqualified and Foreign Qualified & Nonqualified

Domestic Nonqualified and Foreign Qualified & Nonqualified

Domestic Nonqualified and Foreign Qualified & Nonqualified

Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan

U.S. Postretirement Benefit Plan

Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan

Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan

Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan

U.S. Defined Contribution Plan

U.S. Defined Contribution Plan

U.S. Defined Contribution Plan

Netherlands Defined Contribution Plan

Netherlands Defined Contribution Plan

Netherlands Defined Contribution Plan

Post Sixty Five Coverage

Restatement Adjustment

Restatement Adjustment

Subsequent Event

Defined contribution 401 K employee savings plan

Defined contribution 401 K employee savings plan

Defined contribution 401 K employee savings plan

Pension Plan Actuarial Gain Correction

Pension Plan Actuarial Gain Correction

Total Postretirement Benefits

Total Pension Benefits

Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net curtailment gain

'

'

'

$4,507,000

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Annual contribution percentage to defined contribution plan for eligible employees

'

'

5.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Increase in the percentage of pension contribution for employees

'

'

'

'

'

'

6.00%

7.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Pension contributions

10,100,000

'

8,800,000

14,800,000

4,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accumulated benefit obligation for defined benefit pension plans

738,700,000

738,700,000

669,100,000

738,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Post retirement medical benefit available to U.S. employees, change of age group, current range

'

'

'

'

'

'under age 50

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Age group for capping of retiree medical premium

'

'

'

'

'

'age 50 and above

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Actuarial (gain) loss

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-130,297,000

[2]

65,603,000

[2]

88,091,000

[2]

'

-6,120,000

[3]

3,161,000

[3]

3,324,000

[3]

'

'

-132,916,000

[2]

72,550,000

[2]

88,809,000

[2]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,400,000

5,800,000

[2]

Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7.25%

8.25%

8.25%

6.91%

7.00%

7.00%

7.00%

4.35%

4.50%

7.20%

8.19%

8.19%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Assumed weighted-average rate of compensation increase

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.78%

3.37%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Rate of compensation increase

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.50%

4.11%

4.11%

'

3.50%

3.50%

'

'

'

3.37%

3.96%

3.93%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Target allocations percentage of assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

65.00%

35.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Change in percentage of broad asset class targets

'

'

10.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employer contribution

'

10,100,000

'

10,081,000

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

'

7,556,000

15,298,000

'

'

3,504,000

3,198,000

'

'

'

9,790,000

18,299,000

'

13,300,000

21,600,000

59,800,000

14,100,000

'

'

'

'

10,600,000

9,500,000

9,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Expect contributions to benefit plans in 2014

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5,000,000

'

'

'

'

2,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Expected premium contribution

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Expenses related to benefit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-1,500,000

10,300,000

4,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Projected benefit obligation recognized

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

629,337,000

714,158,000

634,184,000

'

62,832,000

70,787,000

68,935,000

'

'

678,582,000

762,395,000

674,665,000

'

'

'

'

'

21,800,000

30,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Assumed rate of increase in the pre-65 and post-65 per capita cost of covered health care benefits for U.S. retirees

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.00%

'

'

Annual premiums and related costs pertaining to defined contribution plan

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10,300,000

9,500,000

9,900,000

'

'

'

Accrued postemployment benefit liability

$600,000

$600,000

$800,000

$600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

[1]

In the fourth quarter of 2012 we recorded a net curtailment gain of $4.5 million ($2.9 million after income taxes) and a one-time employer contribution to the Company’s defined contribution plan of $10.1 million ($6.4 million after income taxes), both in connection with various amendments to certain of our U.S. pension and defined contribution plans that were approved by our Board of Directors in the fourth quarter of 2012. See Note 17, “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits.”

[2]

In the second quarter of 2013, we identified that our consolidated statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2012 included a correction of $5.8 million (recorded in the second quarter of 2012) for pension plan actuarial gains that related to 2011. This amount was deemed to be not material with respect to our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 and any prior period financial statements.

[3]

In the second quarter of 2013, we identified that our consolidated statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2012 included a correction of $4.4 million (recorded in the second quarter of 2012) for postretirement plan actuarial gains that related to 2011. This amount was deemed to be not material with respect to our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 and any prior period financial statements.

Pension_Plans_and_Other_Postre3

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits - Reconciliation of Benefit Obligations, Plan Assets and Funded Status of Plans, as well as Summary of Significant Assumptions for Benefit Plans (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2012

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

Total Pension Benefits

Total Pension Benefits

Total Pension Benefits

Domestic Pension Benefits

Domestic Pension Benefits

Domestic Pension Benefits

Total Postretirement Benefits

Total Postretirement Benefits

Total Postretirement Benefits

Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Benefit obligation, beginning balance

'

'

$762,395

$674,665

'

$714,158

$634,184

'

$70,787

$68,935

'

Service cost

'

'

13,962

12,741

12,830

12,177

11,274

11,169

309

274

263

Interest cost

'

'

29,883

31,636

32,933

28,406

29,843

30,945

2,764

3,172

3,393

Plan amendments

'

-4,500

0

1,123

'

0

1,123

'

'

'

'

Actuarial (gain) loss

'

'

-88,392

90,336

'

-85,774

83,428

'

-6,165

3,032

'

Benefits paid

'

'

-41,132

-49,234

'

-39,630

-45,694

'

-4,863

-4,626

'

Employee contributions

'

'

320

294

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Foreign exchange loss

'

'

1,546

834

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Benefit obligation, ending balance

'

'

678,582

762,395

674,665

629,337

714,158

634,184

62,832

70,787

68,935

Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance

'

'

563,303

[1]

531,105

'

554,179

522,408

'

6,611

[1]

7,681

'

Actual return on plan assets

'

'

83,853

62,577

'

83,499

62,167

'

368

358

'

Employer contributions

10,100

10,081

[2]

9,790

18,299

'

7,556

15,298

'

3,504

3,198

'

Benefits paid

'

'

-41,132

-49,234

'

-39,630

-45,694

'

-4,863

-4,626

'

Employee contributions

'

'

320

294

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Foreign exchange gain

'

'

411

262

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance

'

'

616,545

[1]

563,303

[1]

531,105

605,604

554,179

522,408

5,620

[1]

6,611

[1]

7,681

Funded status

'

'

-62,037

-199,092

'

-23,733

-159,979

'

-57,212

-64,176

'

Current liabilities (accrued expenses)

'

'

-4,390

-3,611

'

-2,856

-2,015

'

-3,309

-3,361

'

Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits)

'

'

-57,647

-195,481

'

-20,877

-157,964

'

-53,903

-60,815

'

Net pension liability

'

'

-62,037

-199,092

'

-23,733

-159,979

'

-57,212

-64,176

'

Prior service benefit

'

'

-70

-759

'

-441

-1,181

'

-429

-525

'

Net amount recognized

'

'

($70)

($759)

'

($441)

($1,181)

'

($429)

($525)

'

Weighted-average assumption percentages:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Discount rate

'

'

5.00%

4.04%

'

5.14%

4.10%

'

5.03%

4.00%

'

Rate of compensation increase

'

'

2.78%

3.37%

'

3.50%

3.50%

'

'

'

'

[1]

See Note 17 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets.

[2]

In the fourth quarter of 2012 we recorded a net curtailment gain of $4.5 million ($2.9 million after income taxes) and a one-time employer contribution to the Company’s defined contribution plan of $10.1 million ($6.4 million after income taxes), both in connection with various amendments to certain of our U.S. pension and defined contribution plans that were approved by our Board of Directors in the fourth quarter of 2012. See Note 17, “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits.”

Pension_Plans_and_Other_Postre4

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits - Components of Pension Benefits Expense (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Total Pension Benefits	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Service cost	$13,962		$12,741		$12,830
Interest cost	29,883		31,636		32,933
Expected return on assets	-39,392		-44,752		-42,186
Actuarial (gain) loss	-132,916	[1]	72,550	[1]	88,809	[1]
Amortization of prior service benefit	-689		-757		-953
Total net pension benefits (credit) cost	-129,152		71,418		91,433
Weighted-average assumption percentages:	'		'		'
Discount rate	4.04%		5.04%		5.40%
Expected return on plan assets	7.20%		8.19%		8.19%
Rate of compensation increase	3.37%		3.96%		3.93%
Domestic Pension Benefits	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Service cost	12,177		11,274		11,169
Interest cost	28,406		29,843		30,945
Expected return on assets	-38,975		-44,342		-41,776
Actuarial (gain) loss	-130,297	[1]	65,603	[1]	88,091	[1]
Amortization of prior service benefit	-741		-812		-1,009
Total net pension benefits (credit) cost	($129,430)		$61,566		$87,420
Weighted-average assumption percentages:	'		'		'
Discount rate	4.10%		5.07%		5.45%
Expected return on plan assets	7.25%		8.25%		8.25%
Rate of compensation increase	3.50%		4.11%		4.11%
[1]	In the second quarter of 2013, we identified that our consolidated statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2012 included a correction of $5.8 million (recorded in the second quarter of 2012) for pension plan actuarial gains that related to 2011. This amount was deemed to be not material with respect to our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 and any prior period financial statements.

Pension_Plans_and_Other_Postre5

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits - Estimated Amounts to Be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into Net Periodic Benefit Costs (Detail) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

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, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2014

Total Postretirement Benefits

Total Postretirement Benefits

Total Postretirement Benefits

Total Pension Benefits

Total Pension Benefits

Total Pension Benefits

Domestic Pension Benefits

Domestic Pension Benefits

Domestic Pension Benefits

Forecast for 2013

Forecast for 2013

Forecast for 2013

Total Postretirement Benefits

Total Pension Benefits

Domestic Pension Benefits

Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amortization of prior service benefit

($95)

($95)

($697)

($689)

($757)

($953)

($741)

($812)

($1,009)

($95)

($689)

($741)

Pension_Plans_and_Other_Postre6

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits - Components of Postretirement Benefits Expense (Income) (Detail) (Total Postretirement Benefits, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Total Postretirement Benefits	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Service cost	$309		$274		$263
Interest cost	2,764		3,172		3,393
Expected return on assets	-413		-488		-509
Actuarial (gain) loss	-6,120	[1]	3,161	[1]	3,324	[1]
Amortization of prior service benefit	-95		-95		-697
Total net pension benefits (credit) cost	($3,555)		$6,024		$5,774
Weighted-average assumption percentages:	'		'		'
Discount rate	4.00%		5.10%		5.30%
Expected return on plan assets	7.00%		7.00%		7.00%
Rate of compensation increase	3.50%		4.00%		4.00%
[1]	In the second quarter of 2013, we identified that our consolidated statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2012 included a correction of $4.4 million (recorded in the second quarter of 2012) for postretirement plan actuarial gains that related to 2011. This amount was deemed to be not material with respect to our financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 and any prior period financial statements.

Pension_Plans_and_Other_Postre7

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits - Financial Assets Accounted for at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Equity securities	$771	[1]	$25	[1]	'
Total Pension Benefits	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	616,545	[2]	563,303	[2]	531,105
Total Pension Benefits | Domestic Equity	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	167,627	[3]	218,145	[4]	'
Total Pension Benefits | International Equity	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	70,609	[5]	107,647	[6]	'
Total Pension Benefits | Fixed Income	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	248,095	[7]	142,967	[8]	'
Total Pension Benefits | Absolute Return	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	125,137	[9]	80,714	[9]	'
Total Pension Benefits | Cash	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	5,077		13,830		'
Total Postretirement Benefits	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	5,620	[2]	6,611	[2]	7,681
Total Postretirement Benefits | Fixed Income	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	5,620	[7]	6,611	[8]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1)	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Equity securities	21	[1]	25	[1]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Total Pension Benefits	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	482,002	[2]	247,463	[2]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Total Pension Benefits | Domestic Equity	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	167,627	[3]	153,465	[4]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Total Pension Benefits | International Equity	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	70,609	[5]	18,977	[6]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Total Pension Benefits | Fixed Income	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	237,151	[7]	51,306	[8]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Total Pension Benefits | Absolute Return	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	1,538	[9]	9,885	[9]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Total Pension Benefits | Cash	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	5,077		13,830		'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Pension Benefits	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	10,944	[2]	245,011	[2]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Pension Benefits | Domestic Equity	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0	[3]	64,680	[4]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Pension Benefits | International Equity	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0	[5]	88,670	[6]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Pension Benefits | Fixed Income	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	10,944	[7]	91,661	[8]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Pension Benefits | Cash	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	0		'		'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Postretirement Benefits	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	5,620	[2]	6,611	[2]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Postretirement Benefits | Fixed Income	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	5,620	[7]	6,611	[8]	'
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Equity securities	750	[1]	'		'
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	123,599	[2]	70,829	[2]	73,025
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits | Absolute Return	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Fair value of plan assets	$123,599	[9]	$70,829	[9]	'
[1]	Primarily consists of private equity securities classified as available-for-sale and are reported in Investments in the consolidated balance sheets. The changes in fair value are reported in Other in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Holdings in private equity securities are typically valued using the net asset valuations provided by the underlying private investment companies and as such are classified within Level 3.
[2]	See Note 17 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets.
[3]	Consists primarily of U.S. stock funds that track or are actively managed and measured against the S&P 500 index
[4]	Consists primarily of U.S. equity securities covering a diverse group of companies and U.S. stock funds that primarily track or are actively managed and measured against indices including the S&P 500 and the Russell 2000.
[5]	Consists primarily of an international equity fund which invests in common stocks and other securities whose value is based on an international equity index or an underlying equity security or basket of equity securities.
[6]	Consists primarily of international equity funds which include stocks and debt obligations of non-U.S. entities that primarily track or are actively managed and measured against various MSCI indices.
[7]	Consists primarily of mutual funds that hold debt obligations issued by governments, corporations, municipalities and other borrowers. Also includes insurance policies.
[8]	Consists primarily of fixed income mutual funds, corporate bonds, U.S. Treasury notes, other government securities and insurance policies.
[9]	Consists primarily of funds with holdings in private investment companies. See additional information about the Absolute Return investments below.

Pension_Plans_and_Other_Postre8

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits - Changes in Fair Value of Plans Level 3 Assets (Detail) (Total Pension Benefits, USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified						Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)		Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]	'		'		'	'		'
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance	$616,545	[1]	$563,303	[1]	$531,105	$70,829	[1]	$73,025
Total losses relating to assets sold during the period	'		'		'	-994	[2]	-31	[3]
Total unrealized gains relating to assets still held at the reporting date	'		'		'	-4,511	[2]	-2,311
Purchases	'		'		'	76,643		'
Sales	'		'		'	-20,356		-4,476
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance	$616,545	[1]	$563,303	[1]	$531,105	$123,599	[1]	$70,829	[1]
[1]	See Note 17 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets.
[2]	Consists primarily of funds with holdings in private investment companies. See additional information about the Absolute Return investments below.
[3]	These gains (losses) are recognized in the consolidated balance sheets and are included as changes in plan assets in the tables above.

Pension_Plans_and_Other_Postre9

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits - Current Forecast of Benefit Payments which Reflect Expected Future Service (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Total Pension Benefits	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2014	$40
2015	39.6
2016	41.2
2017	43.2
2018	46.2
2019-2022	236.3
Domestic Pension Benefits	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2014	37.6
2015	37.8
2016	39.4
2017	40.9
2018	44.5
2019-2022	223
Total Postretirement Benefits	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2014	4.8
2015	4.9
2016	5
2017	4.9
2018	4.8
2019-2022	$21.40

Income_Taxes_Components_of_Inc

Income Taxes - Components of Income Tax Expense Benefit (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments:	'	'	'
Domestic	$351,731	$311,195	$222,361
Foreign	186,711	57,017	260,170
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	538,442	368,212	482,531
Current income tax expense:	'	'	'
Federal	53,953	67,022	90,179
State	2,195	6,107	5,407
Foreign	18,414	19,672	27,166
Total	74,562	92,801	122,752
Deferred income tax expense (benefit):	'	'	'
Federal	69,817	928	-27,128
State	2,416	648	-626
Foreign	-12,350	-13,944	9,473
Total	59,883	-12,368	-18,281
Total income tax expense	$134,445	$80,433	$104,471

Income_Taxes_Significant_Diffe

Income Taxes - Significant Differences Between U.S. Federal Statutory Rate and Effective Income Tax Rate (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'		'		'
Federal statutory rate	35.00%		35.00%		35.00%
State taxes, net of federal tax benefit	0.70%		1.40%		0.60%
Change in valuation allowance	-2.20%	[1]	3.40%	[1]	-0.30%	[1]
Impact of foreign earnings, net	-10.30%	[2]	-6.30%	[2]	-10.90%	[2]
Depletion	-0.90%		-1.30%		-0.90%
Revaluation of unrecognized tax benefits/reserve requirements	-0.10%	[3]	-1.70%	[3]	-0.10%	[3]
Domestic Manufacturing tax deduction	-0.90%	[4]	-3.80%	[4]	-1.20%	[4]
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	2.90%	[2]	-4.90%	[2]	-0.40%	[2]
Other items, net	0.80%		0.00%		-0.10%
Effective income tax rate	25.00%		21.80%		21.70%
[1]	During 2013, the Avonmouth, United Kingdom legal entity was dissolved, therefore the corresponding valuation allowance and deferred tax assets were written off. During 2012, a valuation allowance was established for $15.9 million as a result of the planned shut-down of our Avonmouth, United Kingdom legal entity in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business. See Note 19, “Special Items.”
[2]	In prior years, we designated the undistributed earnings of substantially all of our foreign subsidiaries as indefinitely invested. The benefit of the lower tax rates in the jurisdictions for which we made this designation have been reflected in our effective income tax rate. During 2013, 2012 and 2011, we received distributions of $12.3 million, $56.9 million and $33.8 million, respectively, from various foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures and realized an expense (benefit), net of foreign tax credits, of $2.4 million, $(1.8) million and $5.4 million, respectively, related to the repatriation of these high taxed earnings. We have asserted for all periods being reported, indefinite investment of our share of the income of JBC, a Free Zones company under the laws of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The applicable provisions of the Jordanian law, and applicable regulations thereunder, do not have a termination provision and the exemption is indefinite. As a Free Zones company, JBC is not subject to income taxes on the profits of products exported from Jordan, and currently, substantially all of the profits are from exports. In 2012, undistributed foreign subsidiary earnings were primarily impacted by a $17.4 million change related to the closure of our Avonmouth, United Kingdom site in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business.
[3]	During 2012, we released various tax reserves primarily related to the expiration of the applicable U.S. federal statute of limitations for 2008 which provided a net benefit of $5.2 million.
[4]	During 2012, we amended the calculation of the domestic manufacturing tax deduction for the year 2010 and filed the 2011 tax return. As a result, in 2012 we recognized tax benefits of $1.5 million and $3.0 million related to the 2010 and 2011 tax years, respectively.

Income_Taxes_Significant_Diffe1

Income Taxes - Significant Differences Between U.S. Federal Statutory Rate and Effective Income Tax Rate (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items	'	'	'	'
Valuation Allowance	$33,757,000	$49,562,000	$36,419,000	$39,802,000
Proceeds from various foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures related to repatriation of high taxed earnings	12,300,000	56,900,000	33,800,000	'
Foreign tax credits	2,400,000	-1,800,000	5,400,000	'
Net benefit from tax reserves	'	5,200,000	'	'
Recognized Tax Benefits In 2010	'	'	'	'
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items	'	'	'	'
Recognized tax benefits	'	1,500,000	'	'
Recognized Tax Benefits In 2011	'	'	'	'
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items	'	'	'	'
Recognized tax benefits	'	3,000,000	'	'
Phosphorous Flame Retardant Business Exit	'	'	'	'
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items	'	'	'	'
Impact on undistributed foreign subsidiaries earnings	'	17,400,000	'	'
Avonmouth, United Kingdom [Member]	'	'	'	'
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items	'	'	'	'
Valuation Allowance	'	$15,900,000	'	'

Income_Taxes_Deferred_Income_T

Income Taxes - Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities Recorded on Consolidated Balance Sheets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax assets:	'	'	'	'
Postretirement benefits other than pensions	$300	$14,900	'	'
Accrued employee benefits	31,089	26,603	'	'
Operating loss carryovers	88,614	74,934	'	'
Pensions	37,172	74,521	'	'
Tax credit carryovers	35,170	37,684	'	'
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	0	15,583	'	'
Other	15,447	23,280	'	'
Gross deferred tax assets	207,792	267,505	'	'
Valuation allowance	-33,757	-49,562	-36,419	-39,802
Deferred tax assets	174,035	217,943	'	'
Deferred tax liabilities:	'	'	'	'
Depreciation	-213,575	-193,021	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-3,104	-4,933	'	'
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	-71	0	'	'
Other	-19,747	-20,348	'	'
Deferred tax liabilities	-236,497	-218,302	'	'
Net deferred tax liabilities	-62,462	-359	'	'
Current deferred tax assets	3,912	4,197	'	'
Current deferred tax liabilities	-2,853	-5,700	'	'
Noncurrent deferred tax assets	65,667	64,512	'	'
Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities	-129,188	-63,368	'	'
Net deferred tax liabilities	($62,462)	($359)	'	'

Income_Taxes_Changes_in_Balanc

Income Taxes - Changes in Balance of Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	($49,562)	($36,419)	($39,802)
Additions	-4,359	-20,182	-6,155
Deductions	20,164	7,039	9,538
Ending Balance	($33,757)	($49,562)	($36,419)

Income_Taxes_Income_Tax_Additi

Income Taxes - Income Tax - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
							Domestic Country	Foreign Country	Minimum	Maximum
									Domestic Country	Domestic Country
Income Taxes [Line Items]	'		'		'	'	'	'	'	'
Statutory Accounting Practices, Portion of Excess Retained Earnings Not Taxed	$900,000,000		'		'	'	'	'	'	'
Domestic credit available to offset future payments of income taxes	'		'		'	'	36,600,000	'	'	'
Tax credit carryforward expiration year	'		'		'	'	'	'	'2016	'2023
Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset	33,757,000		49,562,000		36,419,000	39,802,000	3,200,000	800,000	'	'
Net operating loss carryovers	'		'		'	'	31,600,000	279,800,000	'	'
Operating loss carryover, valuation allowance	'		'		'	'	'	101,600,000	'	'
Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties and interest accrued	700,000		800,000		'	'	'	'	'	'
Assets offsetting unrecognized tax benefits	25,700,000		25,800,000		'	'	'	'	'	'
Unrecognized tax benefits net of offsetting assets	3,400,000		2,600,000		'	'	'	'	'	'
Deferred tax assets carryover, valuation allowance	33,757,000		49,562,000		36,419,000	39,802,000	3,200,000	800,000	'	'
Liabilities related to uncertain tax position	29,834,000	[1]	29,179,000	[1]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unrecognized tax benefits	29,143,000		28,398,000		29,789,000	20,949,000	'	'	'	'
Maximum decrease in the liability related to uncertain tax positions	$2,800,000		'		'	'	'	'	'	'
[1]	See Note 18, “Income Taxes.”

Income_Taxes_Reconciliation_of

Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Total Gross Liability Related to Uncertain Tax Positions (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	$28,398	$29,789	$20,949
Additions for tax positions related to prior years	0	4,242	0
Reductions for tax positions related to prior years	-348	0	-1,639
Additions for tax positions related to current year	2,061	3,639	10,802
Lapses in statutes of limitations	-473	-10,057	-323
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-495	785	0
Ending Balance	$29,143	$28,398	$29,789

Special_Items_Additional_Infor

Special Items - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012
Restructuring And Other [Line Items]	'
Charitable contribution	$8
Charitable contribution, after income taxes	5.1
Settlement of Litigation	'
Restructuring And Other [Line Items]	'
Gain of settlement of litigation	8.1
Gain of settlement of litigation, after income taxes	5.1
Estimated reimbursement of related legal fees	$0.90

Special_Items_Restructuring_an

Special Items - Restructuring and Other Charges Reported in Consolidated Statements of Income (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

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

Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Severance costs

$33,400

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$33,361

[1],[2]

$21,640

[1]

$1,859

[1]

Defined benefit pension plan curtailment gain, net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-4,507

[3]

'

Employer contribution to defined contribution plan

'

'

'

'

10,100

'

'

'

'

10,081

[3]

'

Other

'

'

'

'

5,300

'

'

'

'

5,334

[4]

'

Restructuring and other charges, net (Note 19)

33,361

[5]

0

[5]

0

[5]

0

[5]

16,982

[5]

0

[5]

94,703

[5]

0

[5]

33,361

[5]

111,685

[5]

0

[5]

Phosphorous Flame Retardant Business Exit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Severance costs

'

'

'

'

'

'

22,000

'

'

'

'

Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business

'

'

'

'

6,100

'

94,700

'

'

100,777

[6]

'

Other

'

'

'

'

'

'

$3,000

'

'

'

'

[1]

The year ended December 31, 2013 includes charges amounting to $33.4 million in connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014 as described above.The year ended December 31, 2012 includes charges amounting to $21.6 million relating to reduction in force liabilities associated with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business noted above.The year ended December 31, 2011 includes charges of $1.9 million related to restructuring programs at various manufacturing locations which are reflected in Cost of goods sold. Payments under these programs have been completed.

[2]

In connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014, in the fourth quarter of 2013 we initiated a workforce reduction plan which will result in a reduction of approximately 230 employees worldwide. In the fourth quarter of 2013 we recorded charges of $33.4 million ($21.9 million after income taxes) for termination benefits and other costs related to this workforce reduction plan. Payments under this workforce reduction plan are expected to occur through 2014.

[3]

In the fourth quarter of 2012 we recorded a net curtailment gain of $4.5 million ($2.9 million after income taxes) and a one-time employer contribution to the Company’s defined contribution plan of $10.1 million ($6.4 million after income taxes), both in connection with various amendments to certain of our U.S. pension and defined contribution plans that were approved by our Board of Directors in the fourth quarter of 2012. See Note 17, “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits.”

[4]

In the fourth quarter of 2012 we recorded charges amounting to $5.3 million ($4.3 million after income taxes) related to changes in product sourcing and other items.

[5]

See Note 19, “Special Items.”

[6]

In the second quarter of 2012 we recorded net charges amounting to $94.7 million ($73.6 million after income taxes), and in the fourth quarter we recorded net charges amounting to $6.1 million ($2.5 million after income taxes), in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business, whose products were sourced mainly at our Avonmouth, United Kingdom and Nanjing, China manufacturing sites. The charges are comprised mainly of non-cash items consisting of net asset write-offs of approximately $57 million and write-offs of foreign currency translation adjustments of approximately $12 million, as well as accruals for future cash costs associated with related severance programs of approximately $22 million, estimated site remediation costs of approximately $9 million, other estimated exit costs of approximately $3 million, partly offset by a gain of approximately $2 million related to the sale of our Nanjing, China manufacturing site. Payments under this restructuring plan are expected to occur through 2014.

Special_Items_Restructuring_an1

Special Items - Restructuring and Other Charges Reported in Consolidated Statements of Income (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
	employee
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'		'		'
Number of employee reduction	230	'	'	'		'		'
Workforce reduction charges	$33,400,000	'	'	$33,361,000	[1],[2]	$21,640,000	[1]	$1,859,000	[1]
Exit of phosphorous flame retardants business	'	'	8,700,000	0		8,700,000		0
Severance costs net of tax	21,900,000	'	'	'		'		'
Write-offs of foreign currency translation adjustments of phosphorous flame retardants business	'	'	'	'		-12,300,000		'
Other	'	5,300,000	'	'		5,334,000	[3]	'
Defined benefit plan curtailment gain	'	4,500,000	'	'		'		'
Defined benefit plan curtailment gain, net of tax	'	2,900,000	'	'		'		'
One-time employer contribution amount to defined contribution plan	'	10,100,000	'	'		10,081,000	[4]	'
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Net Of Tax	'	6,400,000	'	'		'		'
Other Restructuring Costs Net Of Tax	'	4,300,000	'	'		'		'
Phosphorous Flame Retardant Business Exit	'	'	'	'		'		'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'		'		'
Workforce reduction charges	'	'	22,000,000	'		'		'
Exit of phosphorous flame retardants business	'	'	9,000,000	'		'		'
Restructuring charges	'	6,100,000	94,700,000	'		100,777,000	[5]	'
Restructuring charges, net of tax	'	2,500,000	73,600,000	'		'		'
Phosphorous flame retardants business, net asset write off	'	'	57,000,000	'		'		'
Write-offs of foreign currency translation adjustments of phosphorous flame retardants business	'	'	12,000,000	'		'		'
Other	'	'	3,000,000	'		'		'
Amount of gain related to the sale of Nanjing, China manufacturing site	'	$2,000,000	'	'		$2,000,000		'
[1]	The year ended December 31, 2013 includes charges amounting to $33.4 million in connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014 as described above.The year ended December 31, 2012 includes charges amounting to $21.6 million relating to reduction in force liabilities associated with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business noted above.The year ended December 31, 2011 includes charges of $1.9 million related to restructuring programs at various manufacturing locations which are reflected in Cost of goods sold. Payments under these programs have been completed.
[2]	In connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014, in the fourth quarter of 2013 we initiated a workforce reduction plan which will result in a reduction of approximately 230 employees worldwide. In the fourth quarter of 2013 we recorded charges of $33.4 million ($21.9 million after income taxes) for termination benefits and other costs related to this workforce reduction plan. Payments under this workforce reduction plan are expected to occur through 2014.
[3]	In the fourth quarter of 2012 we recorded charges amounting to $5.3 million ($4.3 million after income taxes) related to changes in product sourcing and other items.
[4]	In the fourth quarter of 2012 we recorded a net curtailment gain of $4.5 million ($2.9 million after income taxes) and a one-time employer contribution to the Company’s defined contribution plan of $10.1 million ($6.4 million after income taxes), both in connection with various amendments to certain of our U.S. pension and defined contribution plans that were approved by our Board of Directors in the fourth quarter of 2012. See Note 17, “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits.”
[5]	In the second quarter of 2012 we recorded net charges amounting to $94.7 million ($73.6 million after income taxes), and in the fourth quarter we recorded net charges amounting to $6.1 million ($2.5 million after income taxes), in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business, whose products were sourced mainly at our Avonmouth, United Kingdom and Nanjing, China manufacturing sites. The charges are comprised mainly of non-cash items consisting of net asset write-offs of approximately $57 million and write-offs of foreign currency translation adjustments of approximately $12 million, as well as accruals for future cash costs associated with related severance programs of approximately $22 million, estimated site remediation costs of approximately $9 million, other estimated exit costs of approximately $3 million, partly offset by a gain of approximately $2 million related to the sale of our Nanjing, China manufacturing site. Payments under this restructuring plan are expected to occur through 2014.

Special_Items_Activity_in_Reco

Special Items - Activity in Recorded Workforce Reduction Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'		'		'		'
Beginning balance	'		$15,898		$4,780		$7,074
Workforce reduction charges	33,400		33,361	[1],[2]	21,640	[1]	1,859	[1]
Payments	'		-8,915		-10,929		-4,292
Amount reversed to income	'		-1,209	[3]	-45	[3]	19	[3]
Foreign currency translation	'		-31		452		120
Ending balance	39,104		39,104		15,898		4,780
Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses	39,104	[4]	39,104	[4]	14,428	[4]	2,843
Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities	$0		$0		$1,470		$1,937
[1]	The year ended December 31, 2013 includes charges amounting to $33.4 million in connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014 as described above.The year ended December 31, 2012 includes charges amounting to $21.6 million relating to reduction in force liabilities associated with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business noted above.The year ended December 31, 2011 includes charges of $1.9 million related to restructuring programs at various manufacturing locations which are reflected in Cost of goods sold. Payments under these programs have been completed.
[2]	In connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014, in the fourth quarter of 2013 we initiated a workforce reduction plan which will result in a reduction of approximately 230 employees worldwide. In the fourth quarter of 2013 we recorded charges of $33.4 million ($21.9 million after income taxes) for termination benefits and other costs related to this workforce reduction plan. Payments under this workforce reduction plan are expected to occur through 2014.
[3]	Amounts reversed to income reflect adjustments based on actual timing and amount of final settlements.
[4]	See Note 19, “Special Items.”

Special_Items_Activity_in_Reco1

Special Items - Activity in Recorded Workforce Reduction Liabilities (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended						3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011		Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
								Phosphorous Flame Retardant Business Exit	Phosphorous Flame Retardant Business Exit
Restructuring And Other [Line Items]	'	'		'		'		'	'
Severance costs	$33,400,000	$33,361,000	[1],[2]	$21,640,000	[1]	$1,859,000	[1]	$22,000,000	'
Workforce reduction charges	'	'		'		$1,900,000		'	$21,600,000
[1]	The year ended December 31, 2013 includes charges amounting to $33.4 million in connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014 as described above.The year ended December 31, 2012 includes charges amounting to $21.6 million relating to reduction in force liabilities associated with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business noted above.The year ended December 31, 2011 includes charges of $1.9 million related to restructuring programs at various manufacturing locations which are reflected in Cost of goods sold. Payments under these programs have been completed.
[2]	In connection with the announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014, in the fourth quarter of 2013 we initiated a workforce reduction plan which will result in a reduction of approximately 230 employees worldwide. In the fourth quarter of 2013 we recorded charges of $33.4 million ($21.9 million after income taxes) for termination benefits and other costs related to this workforce reduction plan. Payments under this workforce reduction plan are expected to occur through 2014.

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru2

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Fair Value of Long-Term Debt (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'
Long-term debt, Recorded Amount	$1,078,864	$699,288
Long-term debt, Fair Value	$1,109,878	$764,784

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru3

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Notional amount	$321.40	$274	'
Other Accounts Receivable	'	'	'
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of foreign currency forward contracts, assets	0.2	0.3	'
Accrued Expenses	'	'	'
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities	'	0.8	'
Other income (expenses), net	'	'	'
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Recognized gains (losses) of foreign currency forward contracts	-1.1	5.1	1
Other, net	'	'	'
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Change in the fair value of foreign currency forward contracts	1.1	-5.1	-1
Cash settlements	($1.80)	$4.80	($3)

Fair_Value_Measurement_Financi

Fair Value Measurement - Financial Assets and Liabilities Accounted for at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'		'
Investments under executive deferred compensation plan	$23,030	[1]	$20,265	[1]	'
Equity securities	771	[2]	25	[2]	'
Foreign currency forward contracts, assets	161	[3]	262	[3]	'
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan	23,030	[1]	20,265	[1]	'
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities	'		771	[3]	'
Total Pension Benefits	'		'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'		'
Defined benefit plan fair value of plan assets	616,545	[4]	563,303	[4]	531,105
Total Postretirement Benefits	'		'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'		'
Defined benefit plan fair value of plan assets	5,620	[4]	6,611	[4]	7,681
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1)	'		'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'		'
Investments under executive deferred compensation plan	23,030	[1]	20,265	[1]	'
Equity securities	21	[2]	25	[2]	'
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan	23,030	[1]	20,265	[1]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Total Pension Benefits	'		'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'		'
Defined benefit plan fair value of plan assets	482,002	[4]	247,463	[4]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2)	'		'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'		'
Foreign currency forward contracts, assets	161	[3]	262	[3]	'
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities	'		771	[3]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Pension Benefits	'		'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'		'
Defined benefit plan fair value of plan assets	10,944	[4]	245,011	[4]	'
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Postretirement Benefits	'		'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'		'
Defined benefit plan fair value of plan assets	5,620	[4]	6,611	[4]	'
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)	'		'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'		'
Equity securities	750	[2]	'		'
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits	'		'		'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'		'		'
Defined benefit plan fair value of plan assets	$123,599	[4]	$70,829	[4]	$73,025
[1]	We maintain an EDCP that was adopted in 2001 and subsequently amended. The purpose of the EDCP is to provide current tax planning opportunities as well as supplemental funds upon the retirement or death of certain of our employees. The EDCP is intended to aid in attracting and retaining employees of exceptional ability by providing them with these benefits. We also maintain a Benefit Protection Trust (the Trust) that was created to provide a source of funds to assist in meeting the obligations of the EDCP, subject to the claims of our creditors in the event of our insolvency. Assets of the Trust are consolidated in accordance with authoritative guidance. The assets of the Trust consist primarily of mutual fund investments (which are accounted for as trading securities and are marked-to-market on a monthly basis through the consolidated statements of income) and cash and cash equivalents. As such, these assets and obligations are classified within Level 1.
[2]	Primarily consists of private equity securities classified as available-for-sale and are reported in Investments in the consolidated balance sheets. The changes in fair value are reported in Other in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Holdings in private equity securities are typically valued using the net asset valuations provided by the underlying private investment companies and as such are classified within Level 3.
[3]	As a result of our global operating and financing activities, we are exposed to market risks from changes in foreign currency exchange rates, which may adversely affect our operating results and financial position. When deemed appropriate, we minimize our risks from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations through the use of derivative financial instruments. The foreign currency forward contracts are valued using broker quotations or market transactions in either the listed or over-the-counter markets. As such, these derivative instruments are classified within Level 2.
[4]	See Note 17 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets.

Acquisitions_Additional_Inform

Acquisitions - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended					0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011	Oct. 02, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
				Catilin Inc.	Tmg Manufacturing Site	Cambridge Chemical Company	Cambridge Chemical Company
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Consideration transferred	'	'	'	'	'	$3,600,000	'
Cash payments related to acquisitions	$2,565,000	$3,360,000	$13,164,000	$4,500,000	$6,500,000	'	$2,300,000

Operating_Segments_and_Geograp2

Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information - Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

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

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

$639,635

$591,196

$576,842

$586,597

$632,677

$604,368

$625,494

$656,615

$2,394,270

[1]

$2,519,154

[1]

$2,651,667

[1]

Total segment operating profit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

576,675

399,783

519,748

Total equity in net income of unconsolidated investments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

31,729

38,067

43,754

Total net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

-5,413

-7,332

-8,389

-5,529

-5,739

-4,975

-3,506

-4,371

-26,663

-18,591

-28,083

Segment income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

533,663

660,503

720,425

Corporate & other

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

81,439

[2]

-129,559

[2]

-185,006

[2]

Restructuring and other charges, net (Note 19)

33,361

[3]

0

[3]

0

[3]

0

[3]

16,982

[3]

0

[3]

94,703

[3]

0

[3]

33,361

[3]

111,685

[3]

0

[3]

Interest and financing expenses

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-31,559

-32,800

-37,574

Other (expenses) income, net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-6,674

1,229

357

Income tax expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-134,445

-80,433

-104,471

Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)

-886

531

2,628

1,835

-368

634

1,608

2,407

4,108

4,281

-1,617

Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation

155,933

90,512

82,739

83,987

37,726

109,459

50,089

114,262

413,171

311,536

392,114

Performance Chemicals

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,392,664

1,451,247

1,534,804

Total segment operating profit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

334,275

410,359

445,463

Total equity in net income of unconsolidated investments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

8,875

6,416

7,696

Total net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-26,663

-18,571

-28,109

Segment income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

316,487

398,204

425,050

Catalyst Solutions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,001,606

1,067,907

1,116,863

Total segment operating profit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

194,322

230,648

259,116

Total equity in net income of unconsolidated investments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

22,854

31,651

36,259

Segment income:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

217,176

262,299

295,375

Total segment operating profit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total segment operating profit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

528,597

641,007

704,579

Corporate & other

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total equity in net income of unconsolidated investments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

0

-201

Total net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$0

($20)

$26

[1]

No sales in a foreign country exceed 10% of total net sales. Also, net sales are attributed to countries based upon shipments to final destination.

[2]

For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, Corporate and other includes $143.1 million, $(68.0) million and $(89.2) million, respectively, of pension and OPEB plan credits (costs) (including mark-to-market actuarial gains and losses).

[3]

See Note 19, “Special Items.”

Operating_Segments_and_Geograp3

Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information - Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'	'	'
Pension and OPEB items	$143.10	($68)	($89.20)

Operating_Segments_and_Geograp4

Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information - Goodwill and Identifiable Assets by Reportable Segments (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Identifiable assets:	$3,584,797	$3,437,291	$3,203,824
Goodwill	284,203	276,966	273,145
Performance Chemicals	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Identifiable assets:	1,129,838	1,110,006	1,011,144
Goodwill	43,603	43,519	43,098
Catalyst Solutions	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Identifiable assets:	1,695,120	1,572,883	1,502,984
Goodwill	240,600	233,447	230,047
Corporate & other	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Identifiable assets:	$759,839	$754,402	$689,696

Operating_Segments_and_Geograp5

Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information - Depreciation Amortization and Capital Expenditures by Reportable Segments (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization:	$107,370	$99,020	$96,753
Capital expenditures:	155,346	280,873	190,574
Performance Chemicals	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization:	43,472	37,831	38,285
Capital expenditures:	94,506	156,648	110,035
Catalyst Solutions	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization:	49,656	47,155	45,739
Capital expenditures:	60,326	122,746	65,308
Discontinued Operations	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization:	12,054	12,120	11,394
Corporate & other	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization:	2,188	1,914	1,335
Capital expenditures:	$514	$1,479	$15,231

Operating_Segments_and_Geograp6

Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information - Net Sales (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

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

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

$639,635

$591,196

$576,842

$586,597

$632,677

$604,368

$625,494

$656,615

$2,394,270

[1]

$2,519,154

[1]

$2,651,667

[1]

United States

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

933,182

[1]

959,571

[1]

1,021,205

[1]

Foreign

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$1,461,088

[1]

$1,559,583

[1]

$1,630,462

[1]

[1]

No sales in a foreign country exceed 10% of total net sales. Also, net sales are attributed to countries based upon shipments to final destination.

Operating_Segments_and_Geograp7

Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information - Net Sales (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'	'	'
Foreign sales to total net sales not exceed percentage	10.00%	10.00%	10.00%

Operating_Segments_and_Geograp8

Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information - Long-Lived Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Long-Lived Assets:	$1,548,577	$1,482,499	$1,309,917
United States	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Long-Lived Assets:	748,719	735,269	652,022
Netherlands	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Long-Lived Assets:	193,775	192,540	185,799
Jordan	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Long-Lived Assets:	227,818	209,133	141,725
Brazil	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Long-Lived Assets:	78,078	85,353	83,452
Germany	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Long-Lived Assets:	86,175	72,797	70,051
China	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Long-Lived Assets:	41,858	39,542	64,449
France	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Long-Lived Assets:	34,523	32,305	28,652
Korea	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Long-Lived Assets:	86,827	81,962	25,008
United Kingdom	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Long-Lived Assets:	3,665	0	12,436
Other foreign countries	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Long-Lived Assets:	$47,139	$33,598	$46,323

Operating_Segments_and_Geograp9

Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information - Net Sales to External Customers in Each of Segments (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

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

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

$639,635

$591,196

$576,842

$586,597

$632,677

$604,368

$625,494

$656,615

$2,394,270

[1]

$2,519,154

[1]

$2,651,667

[1]

Performance Chemicals

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,392,664

1,451,247

1,534,804

Performance Chemicals | Fire Safety Solutions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

620,972

665,293

780,541

Performance Chemicals | Specialty Chemicals

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

520,998

519,606

515,511

Performance Chemicals | Fine Chemistry Services

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

250,694

266,348

238,752

Catalyst Solutions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,001,606

1,067,907

1,116,863

Catalyst Solutions | Refinery Catalyst Solutions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

768,837

794,933

851,482

Catalyst Solutions | Performance Catalyst Solutions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$232,769

$272,974

$265,381

[1]

No sales in a foreign country exceed 10% of total net sales. Also, net sales are attributed to countries based upon shipments to final destination.

Recovered_Sheet2

Operating Segments and Geographic Area Information - Additional Information (Details) (Subsequent Event)	7 Months Ended
	Aug. 07, 2014
	segment
Subsequent Event	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'
Number of operating segments	2

Quarterly_Financial_Summary_De

Quarterly Financial Summary (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013		Sep. 30, 2013		Jun. 30, 2013		Mar. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Sep. 30, 2012		Jun. 30, 2012		Mar. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'		'		'		'		'		'		'		'		'		'		'
Net sales	$639,635		$591,196		$576,842		$586,597		$632,677		$604,368		$625,494		$656,615		$2,394,270	[1]	$2,519,154	[1]	$2,651,667	[1]
Gross profit	253,279		209,611		191,670		195,911		191,362		215,534		245,879		246,068		850,471		898,843		951,716
Restructuring and other charges, net (Note 19)	33,361	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2]	16,982	[2]	0	[2]	94,703	[2]	0	[2]	33,361	[2]	111,685	[2]	0	[2]
Net income from continuing operations	162,232		97,313		88,500		87,681		43,833		113,800		51,987		116,226		435,726		325,846		421,814
Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)	-886		531		2,628		1,835		-368		634		1,608		2,407		4,108		4,281		-1,617
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-5,413		-7,332		-8,389		-5,529		-5,739		-4,975		-3,506		-4,371		-26,663		-18,591		-28,083
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$155,933		$90,512		$82,739		$83,987		$37,726		$109,459		$50,089		$114,262		$413,171		$311,536		$392,114
Basic earnings (loss) per share:	'		'		'		'		'		'		'		'		'		'		'
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$1.93		$1.10		$0.95		$0.93		$0.42		$1.22		$0.54		$1.25		$4.88		$3.44		$4.35
Basic earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	($0.01)		$0.01		$0.03		$0.02		$0		$0.01		$0.02		$0.03		$0.05		$0.05		($0.02)
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$1.92		$1.11		$0.98		$0.95		$0.42		$1.23		$0.56		$1.28		$4.93		$3.49		$4.33
Weighted-average common shares outstanding-basic (in shares)	81,226		81,385		84,028		88,719		89,018		89,327		89,414		88,997		83,839		89,189		90,522
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:	'		'		'		'		'		'		'		'		'		'		'
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$1.92		$1.10		$0.95		$0.92		$0.42		$1.21		$0.54		$1.24		$4.85		$3.42		$4.30
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	($0.01)		$0.01		$0.03		$0.02		$0		$0.01		$0.02		$0.03		$0.05		$0.05		($0.02)
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$1.91		$1.11		$0.98		$0.94		$0.42		$1.22		$0.56		$1.27		$4.90		$3.47		$4.28
Weighted-average common shares outstanding-diluted (in dollars per share)	81,713		81,852		84,489		89,236		89,660		89,879		90,051		89,947		84,322		89,884		91,522
[1]	No sales in a foreign country exceed 10% of total net sales. Also, net sales are attributed to countries based upon shipments to final destination.
[2]	See Note 19, “Special Items.”