Albemarle (ALB) 10-K 29 Feb 16 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Feb. 17, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Document And Entity Information [Abstract] [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2015
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	ALB
Entity Registrant Name	ALBEMARLE CORP
Entity Central Index Key	915,913
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		112,250,676
Entity Public Float			$ 6.2

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCO

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 3,651,335	$ 2,445,548	$ 2,394,270
Cost of goods sold	2,454,463	1,674,700	1,543,799
Gross profit	1,196,872	770,848	850,471
Selling, general and administrative expenses	512,274	355,135	158,189
Research and development expenses	102,871	88,310	82,246
Restructuring and other, net	(6,804)	25,947	33,361
Acquisition and integration related costs	146,096	30,158	0
Operating profit	442,435	271,298	576,675
Interest and financing expenses	(132,722)	(41,358)	(31,559)
Other income (expenses), net	48,474	(16,761)	(6,674)
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	358,187	213,179	538,442
Income tax expense	29,122	18,484	134,445
Income from continuing operations before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	329,065	194,695	403,997
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)	30,999	35,742	31,729
Net income from continuing operations	360,064	230,437	435,726
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax)	0	(69,531)	4,108
Net income	360,064	160,906	439,834
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(25,158)	(27,590)	(26,663)
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$ 334,906	$ 133,316	$ 413,171
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 3.01	$ 2.57	$ 4.88
Basic earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	0	(0.88)	0.05
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)	3.01	1.69	4.93
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	3	2.57	4.85
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	0	(0.88)	0.05
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 3	$ 1.69	$ 4.90
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—basic (in shares)	111,182	78,696	83,839
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—diluted (in shares)	111,556	79,102	84,322
Cash dividends declared per share of common stock (in dollars per share)	$ 1.16	$ 1.10	$ 0.96

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 360,064	$ 160,906	$ 439,834
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation	(412,999)	(168,809)	31,704
Pension and postretirement benefits	(758)	(487)	(502)
Net investment hedge	50,861	11,384	0
Interest rate swap	2,101	(20,962)	0
Other	29	136	135
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(360,766)	(178,738)	31,337
Comprehensive (loss) income	(702)	(17,832)	471,171
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(23,267)	(27,510)	(27,019)
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$ (23,969)	$ (45,342)	$ 444,152

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 213,734	$ 2,489,768
Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts (2015—$4,148; 2014—$1,563)	552,828	385,212
Other accounts receivable	79,877	49,423
Inventories	508,728	358,361
Other current assets	71,351	66,086
Assets held for sale	404,485	0
Total current assets	1,831,003	3,348,850
Property, plant and equipment, at cost	3,881,162	2,620,670
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	1,396,424	1,388,802
Net property, plant and equipment	2,484,738	1,231,868
Investments	455,417	194,042
Other assets	216,998	160,956
Goodwill	2,893,811	243,262
Other intangibles, net of amortization	1,733,047	44,125
Total assets	9,615,014	5,223,103
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	306,517	231,705
Accrued expenses	402,379	166,174
Current portion of long-term debt	677,345	711,096
Dividends payable	32,306	21,458
Liabilities held for sale	128,706	0
Income taxes payable	69,432	9,453
Total current liabilities	1,616,685	1,139,886
Long-term debt	3,174,674	2,223,035
Postretirement benefits	49,647	56,424
Pension benefits	381,552	170,534
Other noncurrent liabilities	254,826	87,705
Deferred income taxes	$ 736,317	$ 56,884
Commitments and contingencies (Note 17)
Albemarle Corporation shareholders’ equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value (authorized 150,000 shares), issued and outstanding — 112,219 in 2015 and 78,031 in 2014	$ 1,122	$ 780
Additional paid-in capital	2,059,151	10,447
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(421,288)	(62,413)
Retained earnings	1,615,407	1,410,651
Total Albemarle Corporation shareholders’ equity	3,254,392	1,359,465
Noncontrolling interests	146,921	129,170
Total equity	3,401,313	1,488,635
Total liabilities and equity	$ 9,615,014	$ 5,223,103

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Trade accounts receivables, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 4,148	$ 1,563
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	112,219,000	78,031,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	112,219,000	78,031,000

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHAN

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Retained Earnings	Total Albemarle Shareholders’ Equity	Noncontrolling Interests
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012		88,899,209
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 1,932,008	$ 889	$ 2,761	$ 85,264	$ 1,744,684	$ 1,833,598	$ 98,410
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
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	0	$ 3	(3)			0
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 (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013		80,052,842
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2013	1,742,776	$ 801	9,957	116,245	1,500,358	1,627,361	115,415
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	160,906				133,316	133,316	27,590
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(178,738)			(178,658)		(178,658)	(80)
Cash dividends declared	(101,899)				(86,364)	(86,364)	(15,535)
Noncontrolling interests share of contributed capital in subsidiary	1,780					0	1,780
Stock-based compensation and other	13,556		13,556			13,556
Exercise of stock options (in shares)		77,546
Exercise of stock options	2,713	$ 1	2,712			2,713
Shares repurchased (in shares)		(2,190,254)
Shares repurchased	(150,000)	$ (22)	(13,319)		(136,659)	(150,000)
Tax benefit related to stock plans	826		826			826
Issuance of common stock, net (in shares)		141,937
Issuance of common stock, net	0	$ 1	(1)			0
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances (in shares)		(51,547)
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances	(3,285)	$ (1)	(3,284)			(3,285)
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014		78,030,524
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2014	1,488,635	$ 780	10,447	(62,413)	1,410,651	1,359,465	129,170
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	360,064				334,906	334,906	25,158
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(360,766)			(358,875)		(358,875)	(1,891)
Cash dividends declared	(153,436)				(130,150)	(130,150)	(23,286)
Stock-based compensation and other	$ 13,696		13,696			13,696
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	18,000	18,000
Exercise of stock options	$ 517	$ 0	517			517
Tax deficiency related to stock plans	(167)		(167)			(167)
Issuance of common stock, net (in shares)		85,900
Issuance of common stock, net	0	$ 1	(1)			0
Acquisition of Rockwood (in shares)		34,113,064
Acquisition of Rockwood	2,054,132	$ 341	2,036,209			2,036,550	17,582
Noncontrolling interest assumed in acquisition of Shanghai Chemetall	4,843					0	4,843
Purchase of noncontrolling interest	(4,655)					0	(4,655)
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances (in shares)		(28,137)
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances	(1,550)	$ 0	(1,550)			(1,550)
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015		112,219,351
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 3,401,313	$ 1,122	$ 2,059,151	$ (421,288)	$ 1,615,407	$ 3,254,392	$ 146,921

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	$ 2,489,768	$ 477,239	$ 477,696
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	360,064	160,906	439,834
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	260,076	103,572	107,370
(Gain) loss associated with restructuring and other	(6,804)	6,333	0
Loss on disposal of businesses	0	85,515	0
Stock-based compensation	15,188	14,267	10,164
Excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements	(121)	(826)	(3,266)
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)	(30,999)	(35,742)	(31,729)
Dividends received from unconsolidated investments and nonmarketable securities	59,912	40,688	21,632
Pension and postretirement (benefit) expense	(38,817)	133,681	(132,707)
Pension and postretirement contributions	(21,613)	(13,916)	(13,294)
Unrealized gain on investments in marketable securities	(1,239)	(825)	(3,681)
Deferred income taxes	(136,298)	(64,947)	64,865
Changes in current assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and divestitures:
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable	(8,788)	36,221	(65,906)
Decrease (increase) in inventories	27,649	(6,486)	(1,810)
Decrease in other current assets excluding deferred income taxes	12,756	5,809	5,261
Increase in accounts payable	23,745	28,296	19,267
(Decrease) increase in accrued expenses and income taxes payable	(96,896)	(6,680)	12,185
Other, net	(57,126)	6,743	4,674
Net cash provided by operating activities	360,689	492,609	432,859
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisition of Rockwood, net of cash acquired	(2,051,645)	0	0
Other acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(48,845)	0	0
Capital expenditures	(227,649)	(110,576)	(155,346)
Decrease in restricted cash	57,550	0	0
Cash payments related to acquisitions and other	0	0	(2,565)
Cash proceeds from divestitures, net	8,883	104,718	0
Return of capital from unconsolidated investment	98,000	0	0
Payment for settlement of interest rate swap	0	(33,425)	0
Sales of marketable securities, net	998	649	169
Repayments from (long-term advances to) joint ventures	2,156	(7,499)	0
Net cash used in investing activities	(2,160,552)	(46,133)	(157,742)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes	0	1,888,197	0
Proceeds from borrowings of other long-term debt	2,250,000	0	117,000
Repayments of long-term debt	(2,626,241)	(6,017)	(135,733)
Other borrowings (repayments), net	54,625	(5,825)	398,544
Dividends paid to shareholders	(119,302)	(84,102)	(78,107)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests	(23,286)	(15,535)	(10,014)
Purchase of noncontrolling interest	(4,784)	0	0
Repurchases of common stock	0	(150,000)	(582,298)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	517	2,713	5,553
Excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements	121	826	3,266
Withholding taxes paid on stock-based compensation award distributions	(1,549)	(3,284)	(6,149)
Debt financing costs	(4,544)	(17,644)	(108)
Other	(3,882)	0	0
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	(478,325)	1,609,329	(288,046)
Net effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents	2,154	(43,276)	12,472
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	(2,276,034)	2,012,529	(457)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$ 213,734	$ 2,489,768	$ 477,239

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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. As described further in Note 2, “Acquisitions,” we completed our acquisition of Rockwood Holdings, Inc. (“Rockwood”) on January 12, 2015. The consolidated financial statements contained herein include the results of operations of Rockwood, commencing on January 13, 2015. Organizational Realignment As a result of the Rockwood acquisition, in 2015 we realigned our organizational structure under three reportable segments: Performance Chemicals, Refining Solutions and Chemetall Surface Treatment. Throughout this document, including these consolidated financial statements and related footnotes, current and prior year financial information is presented in accordance with this structure. Discontinued Operations Effective January 1, 2015, a component or group of components that is classified as held for sale or that has been disposed of by sale, and which represents a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on our operations and financial results, is reported as discontinued operations beginning in the period when these criteria are met. Our assets and liabilities held for sale at December 31, 2015 did not meet the criteria to be presented as discontinued operations. On September 1, 2014, the Company closed the sale of its antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets to SI Group, Inc. In accordance with the accounting guidance for discontinued operations in effect prior to January 1, 2015, the financial results of this disposed group were presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income and excluded from segment results for 2014 and 2013. See Note 3, “Divestitures” for additional information. 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 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. 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, and are generally not significant. 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. We assign the useful lives of our property, plant and equipment based upon our internal engineering estimates which are reviewed periodically. The estimated useful lives of our property, plant and equipment range from two to sixty years and depreciation is recorded on the straight-line method, with the exception of our long-term mineral rights, which are depleted on a units-of-production method. We evaluate the recovery of our property, plant and equipment by comparing the net carrying value of the asset group to the undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated from the use and eventual disposition of that asset group when events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the carrying amount of the asset group is not recoverable, the fair value of the asset group is measured and if the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, an impairment loss is recognized. 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. 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. If the amount and timing of the cash payments for a site are fixed or reliably determinable, the liability is discounted. 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, 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 about sales volumes, selling prices, raw material prices, labor and other employee benefit costs, capital additions, income taxes, working capital, 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 perform a sensitivity analysis by using a range of inputs to confirm the reasonableness of these estimates being used in the goodwill impairment analysis. 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 the Company and, therefore, are beyond our control. We test our recorded goodwill 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, 2015 and concluded there was no impairment as of that date. In addition, no indications of impairment in any of our reporting units were indicated by the sensitivity analysis. We assess our indefinite-lived intangible assets, which include trade names and in-progress research and development, for impairment annually and between annual tests if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired. The indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment standard allows us to first to assess qualitative factors to determine if a quantitative impairment test is necessary. Further testing is only required if we determine, based on the qualitative assessment, that it is more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible asset’s fair value is less than its carrying amount. If we determine based on the qualitative assessment that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired, an impairment test is performed by comparing the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset to its carrying amount. 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 twenty-five years . Except for customer lists and relationships associated with our Lithium business and Chemetall Surface Treatment segment, which are amortized using the pattern of economic benefit method, definite-lived intangible assets are amortized using the straight-line method. We evaluate the recovery of our definite-lived intangible assets by comparing the net carrying value of the asset group to the undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated from the use and eventual disposition of that asset group when events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the carrying amount of the asset group is not recoverable, the fair value of the asset group is measured and if the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, an impairment loss is recognized. See Note 12, “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 our 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. • Mortality Assumptions—Assumptions about life expectancy of plan participants are used in the measurement of related plan obligations. 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 2015 , we made changes to assumptions related to discount rates and expected rates of return on plan assets. 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 2015 , 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, 2015 measurement date. In selecting the discount rates for the foreign plans, we look at long-term yields on AA-rated corporate bonds when available. Our actuaries have developed yield curves based on the yields on the constituent bonds in the various indices as well as on other market indicators such as swap rates, particularly at the longer durations. For the Eurozone, we apply the Aon Hewitt yield curve to projected cash flows from the relevant plans to derive the discount rate. For the UK, the discount rate is determined by applying the Aon Hewitt yield curve for typical schemes of similar duration to projected cash flows of Albemarle’s UK plan. In other countries where there is not a sufficiently deep market of high-quality corporate bonds, we set the discount rate by referencing the yield on government bonds of an appropriate duration. 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. In October 2014, the Society of Actuaries (“SOA”) published updated mortality tables which reflect increased life expectancy. We revised our mortality assumptions to incorporate the new set of mortality tables issued by the SOA for purposes of measuring our U.S. pension and OPEB obligations at December 31, 2014. Further, the SOA released an updated Mortality Improvement Scale, MP-2015, on October 8, 2015. The updated improvement scale incorporates two additional years of mortality data and reflects a trend toward somewhat smaller improvements in longevity. In addition, the SOA released a set of factors to adjust the RP-2014 Mortality Tables to base year 2006. We revised our mortality assumption to incorporate these updated mortality improvements for purposes of measuring our U.S. pension and OPEB obligations at December 31, 2015. 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. Additionally, the Company sponsors various defined contribution plans for certain employees at foreign locations, the most significant of which is 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 statements 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 with a service condition are determined based on the number of shares or units granted and the quoted price of our common stock on the date of grant, and the fair value of stock options is determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value of performance unit awards with a service condition and a market condition are estimated on the date of grant using a Monte Carlo simulation 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. In order to record deferred tax assets and liabilities, we are following guidance under ASU 2015-17, which requires deferred tax assets and liabilities to be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet, along with any related valuation allowance. 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. Under current accounting guidance for uncertain tax positions, interest and penalties related to income tax liabilities are included in Income tax expense on the consolidated statements of income. 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. If it is determined that cash can be repatriated with little to no tax consequences, we may choose to repatriate cash at that time. 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 (Loss) Income Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income is comprised principally of foreign currency translation adjustments, amounts related to the revaluation of our euro-denominated senior notes which were designated as a hedge of our net investment in foreign operations in 2014, a realized loss on a forward starting interest rate swap entered into in 2014 which was designated as a cash flow hedge, and deferred income taxes related to the aforementioned items. 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. Foreign exchange transaction gains (losses) were $51.8 million , ($3.7) million and ($10.6) million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively, and are included in Other income (expenses), net, in our consolidated statements of income, with the unrealized portion included in Other, net, in our consolidated statements of cash flows. The gains in 2015 are primarily related to cash denominated in U.S. Dollars held by foreign subsidiaries where the European Union Euro serves as the functional currency. 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 impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates. While these contracts are subject to fluctuations in value, such fluctuations are generally expected to be offset by changes in the value of the underlying foreign currency exposures being hedged. Unless otherwise noted, gains and losses on foreign currency forward contracts are recognized currently in Other income (expenses), net, and generally do not have a significant impact on results of operations. We may also enter into interest rate swaps, collars or similar instruments from time to time, with the objective of reducing interest rate volatility relating to our borrowing costs. 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. Our foreign currency forward contracts outstanding at December 31, 2015 and 2014 have not been designated as hedging instruments under Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 815, Derivatives and Hedging . Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued accounting guidance that changed the criteria for reporting discontinued operations and modified related disclosure requirements to provide users of financial statements with more information about the assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of discontinued operations. The guidance modified the definition of discontinued operations by limiting its scope to disposals of components of an entity that represent strategic shifts that have (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. Additionally, these new requirements require entities to disclose the pretax profit or loss related to disposals of significant components that do not qualify as discontinued operations. These new requirements became effective on January 1, 2015. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures” for additional information. In May 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance designed to enhance comparability of revenue recognition practices across entities, industries, jurisdictions and capital markets. The core principle of the guidance is that revenue recognized from a transaction or event that arises from a contract with a customer should reflect the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for goods or services provided. To achieve that core principle the new guidance sets forth a five-step revenue recognition model that will need to be applied consistently to all contracts with customers, except those that are within the scope of other topics in the ASC. Also required are new disclosures to help users of financial statements better understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenues and cash flows from contracts with customers. The new disclosures include qualitative and quantitative information about contracts with customers, significant judgments made in applying the revenue guidance, and assets recognized related to the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. These new requirements become effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We are assessing the impact of these new requirements on our financial statements. In June 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance which clarifies the proper method of accounting for share-based payments when the terms of an award provide that a performance target could be achieved after the requisite service period. The accounting guidance requires that a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition. The performance target should not be reflected in estimating the grant-date fair value of the award. Compensation cost should be recognized in the period in which it becomes probable that the performance target will be achieved and should represent the compensation cost attributable to the period(s) for which the requisite service has already been rendered. These new requirements become effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, and early adoption is permitted. We do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on our financial statements. In February 2015, the FASB issued accounting guidance that changes the analysis that reporting entities must perform to determine whether certain types of legal entities should be consolidated. Specifically, the amendments affect (a) limited partnerships and similar legal entities; (b) the consolidation analysis of reporting entities that are involved with variable interest entities, particularly those that have fee arrangements and related party relationships; and (c) certain investment funds. These amendments are effective for fiscal years, and for interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. We are assessing the impact of these amendments on our financial statements, however we do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Acquisitions: On July 15, 2014, we entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) to acquire all the outstanding shares of Rockwood (the “Merger”). On January 12, 2015 (the “Acquisition Closing Date”), we completed the acquisition of Rockwood for a purchase price of approximately $ 5.7 billion . As a result, Rockwood became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Albemarle. The cash consideration was funded with proceeds from our 2014 Senior Notes, August 2014 Term Loan Agreement, Cash Bridge Facility and February 2014 Credit Agreement, each of which is described further in Note 14, “Long-Term Debt.” The fair value of the equity consideration was based on the closing price of Albemarle’s common stock on the Acquisition Closing Date of $59.70 per share, as reported on the New York Stock Exchange. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, at the Acquisition Closing Date each issued and outstanding share of Rockwood common stock, par value $0.01 per share, (other than shares owned directly or indirectly by Albemarle, Rockwood or the Merger Sub, as defined in the Merger Agreement, and Appraisal Shares as defined in the Merger Agreement) was canceled and extinguished and converted into the right to receive (i) $50.65 in cash, without interest, and (ii) 0.4803 of a share of Albemarle common stock, par value $0.01 per share, (the “Merger Consideration”). Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, equity awards relating to shares of Rockwood’s common stock were canceled and converted into the right to receive the cash value of the Merger Consideration. On the Acquisition Closing Date, we issued approximately 34.1 million shares of Albemarle common stock. Subsequent to the acquisition of Rockwood, Albemarle continues to be a leading global developer, manufacturer and marketer of technologically advanced and high value-added specialty chemicals. We are a leading integrated and low-cost global producer of lithium and lithium compounds used in lithium ion batteries for electronic devices, alternative transportation vehicles and energy storage technologies, meeting the significant growth in global demand for these products. We are also one of the largest global producers of surface treatments and coatings for metal processing, servicing the automotive, aerospace and general industrial markets. Included in Net sales and Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation for the year ended December 31, 2015 is approximately $1.4 billion and $176.2 million , respectively, attributable to the businesses acquired from Rockwood. Included in Acquisition and integration related costs on our consolidated statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2015 is $137.7 million of costs directly related to the acquisition of Rockwood (mainly consisting of professional services and advisory fees, costs to achieve synergies, relocation costs, and other integration costs), and $8.4 million of costs in connection with other significant projects. Acquisition and integration related costs for the year ended December 31, 2014 includes $23.6 million of costs directly related to the acquisition of Rockwood and $6.6 million of costs in connection with other significant projects. Acquisition-related costs incurred during the year ended December 31, 2013 are included in Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses and were not significant. Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation The aggregate purchase price noted above was allocated to the major categories of assets and liabilities acquired based upon their estimated fair values at the Acquisition Closing Date, which were based, in part, upon third-party appraisals for certain assets, including specifically-identified intangible assets. The excess of the purchase price over the preliminary estimated fair value of the net assets acquired was approximately $2.8 billion and was recorded as goodwill. The following table summarizes the consideration paid for Rockwood and the amounts of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date, which have been allocated on a preliminary basis (in thousands): Total purchase price $ 5,725,321 Net assets acquired: Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,555,139 Trade and other accounts receivable 262,947 Inventories 290,326 Other current assets 86,267 Property, plant and equipment 1,377,249 Investments 529,453 Other assets 25,538 Definite-lived intangible assets: Patents and technology 227,840 Trade names and trademarks 258,740 Customer lists and relationships 1,264,227 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trade names and trademarks 104,380 Other 26,410 Current liabilities (406,513 ) Long-term debt (1,319,132 ) Pension benefits (316,086 ) Other noncurrent liabilities (195,052 ) Deferred income taxes (845,965 ) Noncontrolling interests (17,582 ) Total identifiable net assets 2,908,186 Goodwill 2,817,135 Total net assets acquired $ 5,725,321 The allocation of the purchase price to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, including the residual amount allocated to goodwill, is based upon preliminary information and is subject to change within the measurement period (up to one year from the acquisition date) as additional information concerning final asset and liability valuations is obtained. Significant changes to the purchase price allocation since our initial preliminary estimates reported in the first quarter of 2015 were primarily related to decreases in the estimated fair values of certain current assets, property, plant and equipment, investments and intangible assets and increases in certain other noncurrent liabilities and noncontrolling interests, which resulted in an increase to recognized goodwill of approximately $192.3 million . The primary areas of the preliminary purchase price allocation that are not yet finalized relate to the fair value of specific property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, and related deferred income taxes. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are based on management’s preliminary estimates and assumptions, as well as other information compiled by management, including valuations that utilize customary valuation procedures and techniques. While the Company believes that such preliminary estimates provide a reasonable basis for estimating the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, it will evaluate any necessary information prior to finalization of the amounts. During the measurement-period, the Company will adjust assets or liabilities if new information is obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date that, if known, would have resulted in revised estimated values of those assets or liabilities as of that date. The effect of measurement-period adjustments to the estimated fair values will be reflected as if the adjustments had been completed on the acquisition date. The impact of all changes that do not qualify as measurement-period adjustments will be included in current period earnings. If the actual results differ from the estimates and judgments used in these fair values, the amounts recorded in the consolidated financial statements could be subject to a possible impairment of the intangible assets or goodwill, or require acceleration of the amortization of intangible assets in subsequent periods. Goodwill arising from the acquisition consists largely of the anticipated synergies and economies of scale from the combined companies and the overall strategic importance of the acquired businesses to Albemarle. The goodwill attributable to the acquisition will not be amortizable or deductible for tax purposes. The weighted-average amortization periods for the intangible assets acquired are 20 years for patents and technology, 20 years for trade names and trademarks and 24 years for customer lists and relationships. The weighted-average amortization period for all definite-lived intangible assets acquired is 23 years. Long-term debt assumed primarily includes Rockwood’s 4.625% senior notes with an aggregate principal amount of $1.25 billion and a fair value adjustment of approximately $43.7 million related to the senior notes. The fair value adjustment was based primarily on reported market values using Level 1 inputs. See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt,” for additional information about these senior notes. As discussed further in Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” in the third quarter of 2015 the Company early-adopted new accounting guidance that changes the reporting requirements for measurement-period adjustments that occur in periods after a business combination is consummated. For the three months ended December 31, 2015, Depreciation and amortization expense included in Cost of goods sold was reduced by approximately $3.0 million as a result of measurement period adjustments related to previous reporting periods. There were no significant measurement-period adjustments recorded in the consolidated statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2015 that related to previous reporting periods. Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information The following unaudited pro forma results of operations of the Company for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 assume that the Merger occurred on January 1, 2014. The pro forma amounts include certain adjustments, including interest expense, depreciation, amortization expense and income taxes. The pro forma amounts for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were adjusted to exclude approximately $137.7 million and $23.6 million , respectively, of nonrecurring acquisition and integration related costs. Additionally, pro forma amounts for the year ended December 31, 2015 were adjusted to exclude approximately $103.0 million of charges related to the utilization of the inventory markup as further described in Note 25, “Segment and Geographic Area Information.” The 2014 pro forma results do not include adjustments related to cost savings or other synergies that are anticipated as a result of the Merger. Accordingly, these unaudited pro forma results are presented for informational purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of what the actual results of operations of the combined company would have been if the acquisition had occurred as of January 1, 2014, nor are they indicative of future results of operations. Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 (in thousands, except per share amounts) Pro forma Net sales $ 3,684,665 $ 3,870,428 Pro forma Net income from continuing operations $ 527,997 $ 353,313 Pro forma Net income from continuing operations per share: Basic $ 4.75 $ 3.13 Diluted $ 4.73 $ 3.12 Litigation Related to the Merger On February 19, 2015, Verition Multi-Strategy Master Fund Ltd. and Verition Partners Master Fund Ltd., who collectively owned approximately 882,000 shares of Rockwood common stock immediately prior to the Merger, commenced an action in the Delaware Chancery Court seeking appraisal of their shares of Rockwood common stock pursuant to Delaware General Corporation Law § 262. These shareholders exercised their right not to receive the Merger Consideration for each share of Rockwood common stock owned by such shareholders. Following the Merger, these shareholders ceased to have any rights with respect to their Rockwood shares, except for their rights to seek an appraisal of the cash value of their Rockwood shares under Delaware law. On March 16, 2015, Albemarle, on behalf of Rockwood, filed an Answer and Verified List in response to the appraisal petition. On November 2, 2015, the court granted the parties’ jointly stipulated amended scheduling order, which set forth dates for fact and expert discovery, as well as trial. On December 21, 2015, the parties entered into a Settlement Agreement and Release to resolve the matter, and on January 11, 2016, the Court dismissed the matter with prejudice. Acquisition of Remaining Interest in Shanghai Chemetall Chemicals Co., Ltd. On January 29, 2015, we acquired the remaining 40% interest in Shanghai Chemetall Chemicals Co., Ltd., (“Shanghai Chemetall”) for approximately $57.6 million ( $45.6 million net of cash acquired), the proceeds of which came from the release of restricted cash acquired from Rockwood at closing. As of the acquisition date, Shanghai Chemetall became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Albemarle and is being consolidated into the Chemetall ® Surface Treatment segment. The purchase price and the fair value of our equity interest immediately before the date of acquisition (approximately $60 million ), as well as the fair value of the noncontrolling interest in Nanjing Chemetall Surface Technologies Co., Ltd., have been allocated to the net assets acquired at the acquisition date. On December 23, 2015, we paid approximately $4.8 million in connection with the acquisition of the remaining noncontrolling interests’ share of Nanjing Chemetall Surface Technologies Co., Ltd.

Divestitures

Divestitures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations	Divestitures: Assets Held for Sale In 2015, we announced our intention to pursue strategic alternatives, including divestitures, related to certain businesses which include minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals, fine chemistry services and metal sulfides. In the fourth quarter of 2015, we determined that the assets held for sale criteria in accordance with ASC 360, Property, Plant and Equipment, were met for these businesses as well as a small group of assets at an idled site. As such, t he ass ets and liabilities of these businesses are included in Assets held for sale and Liabilities held for sale, respectively, in the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2015. We have determined that as of December 31, 2015, the expected cash flows of these businesses were sufficient to establish recoverability of the asset carrying values, and therefore no impairment charge has been recorded in the accompanying financial statements under the held-for-sale model. On November 5, 2015, the Company signed a definitive agreement to sell its Tribotecc metal sulfides business to Treibacher Industrie AG. Included in the transaction were sites in Vienna and Arnoldstein, Austria, and Tribotecc’s proprietary sulfide synthesis process. On January 4, 2016, t he Company closed the sale of this business. We received net proceeds of approximate ly $137 million , and we currently expect to record a gain in the first quarter of 2016 related to the sale of this business. On December 16, 2015, the Company signed a definitive agreement to sell its minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals businesses to Huber Engineered Materials, a division of J.M. Huber Corporation. The transaction includes Albemarle’s Martinswerk GmbH subsidiary and manufacturing facility located in Bergheim, Germany, and Albemarle’s 50% ownership interest in Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH, a joint-venture with Radex Heraklith Industriebeteiligung AG at Breitenau, Au stria. On February 1, 2016, the Company closed the sale of these businesses. We received net proceeds of approximately $187 million , subject to post-closing adjustments. We curren tly expect to record a gain in the first quarter of 2016 related to the sale of these businesses. The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities that were classified as held for sale at December 31, 2015, are as follows (in thousands): Assets Current assets $ 156,421 Net property, plant and equipment 115,865 Goodwill 46,794 Other intangibles, net of amortization 66,324 All other noncurrent assets 19,081 Assets held for sale $ 404,485 Liabilities Current liabilities $ 72,756 Deferred income taxes 24,947 All other noncurrent liabilities 31,003 Liabilities held for sale $ 128,706 Assets held for sale and related liabilities are classified as current in the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2015 because the Company has completed or expects to complete the sale of such assets in 2016. The results of operations of the businesses classified as held for sale are included in continuing operations within the consolidated statements of income. These businesses did not qualify for discontinued operations treatment because the Company’s management does not consider their sale as representing a strategic shift that had or will have a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results . 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. Included in the transaction were Albemarle’s manufacturing sites in Orangeburg, South Carolina and Jinshan, China, along with Albemarle’s antioxidant product lines manufactured in Ningbo, China. On September 1, 2014, the Company closed the sale of these businesses and assets and received net proceeds of $104.7 million . A working capital settlement of $7.6 million (recorded in Other accounts receivable at December 31, 2014) was received in the first quarter of 2015. Financial results of the disposed group have been presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income for 2014 and 2013. A summary of results of discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 is as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2014 2013 Net sales $ 154,273 $ 222,146 (Loss) income from discontinued operations $ (90,439 ) $ 5,985 Income tax (benefit) expense (20,908 ) 1,877 (Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax) $ (69,531 ) $ 4,108 Included in (Loss) income from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 are pre-tax charges of $85.5 million ( $65.7 million after income taxes) related to the loss on the sale of the disposed group, representing the difference between the carrying value of the related assets and their fair value as determined by the sales price less estimated costs to sell. The loss is primarily attributable to the write-off of goodwill, intangibles and long-lived assets, net of cumulative foreign currency translation gains of $17.8 million .

Supplemental Cash Flow Informat

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 2014 2013 Cash paid during the year for: Income taxes (net of refunds of $7,333, $6,035 and $14,296 in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively) (a) $ 162,408 $ 56,174 $ 51,772 Interest (net of capitalization) $ 153,271 $ 33,604 $ 29,629 Supplemental non-cash disclosures related to investing activities: Capital expenditures included in Accounts payable $ 45,826 $ 20,373 $ 13,741 (a) Cash paid for income taxes during 2015 includes approximately $111 million of taxes paid on repatriation of earnings from legacy Rockwood entities.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 2014 2013 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations Numerator: Net income from continuing operations $ 360,064 $ 230,437 $ 435,726 Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (25,158 ) (27,590 ) (26,663 ) Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 334,906 $ 202,847 $ 409,063 Denominator: Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share 111,182 78,696 83,839 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations $ 3.01 $ 2.57 $ 4.88 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations Numerator: Net income from continuing operations $ 360,064 $ 230,437 $ 435,726 Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (25,158 ) (27,590 ) (26,663 ) Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 334,906 $ 202,847 $ 409,063 Denominator: Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share 111,182 78,696 83,839 Incremental shares under stock compensation plans 374 406 483 Weighted-average common shares for diluted earnings per share 111,556 79,102 84,322 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations $ 3.00 $ 2.57 $ 4.85 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, 2015 , there were 1,114,041 common stock equivalents not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because their effect would have been anti-dilutive. Included in the calculation of basic earnings per share are unvested restricted stock awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends. At December 31, 2015 , there were 9,250 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, 2015 , no shares of preferred stock have been issued. On February 12, 2013, our Board of Directors authorized an 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 its existing Board authorized share repurchase program, in 2014 and 2013 the Company repurchased 2,190,254 shares and 7,064,932 shares of its common stock, respectively, pursuant to accelerated share repurchase (“ASR”) agreements with two financial institutions. Amounts paid pursuant to the ASR agreements were $150 million and $450 million in 2014 and 2013, respectively, and these purchases were funded through a combination of available cash on hand and debt. The Company determined that each of the ASR agreements met the criteria to be accounted for as a forward contract indexed to its own stock and were therefore treated as equity instruments. The final number of shares delivered upon settlement of each agreement was determined with reference to the daily Rule 10b-18 volume weighted-average prices of the Company’s common stock over the term of each agreement, less a forward price adjustment amount. The shares repurchased reduced the Company’s weighted average shares outstanding for purposes of calculating basic and diluted earnings per share. During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 , the Company repurchased 2,190,254 and 9,198,056 shares of its common stock, respectively, pursuant to the terms of its share repurchase program. There were no shares of the Company’s common stock repurchased during the year ended December 31, 2015. As of December 31, 2015 , there were 3,749,340 remaining shares available for repurchase under the Company’s authorized share repurchase program.

Other Accounts Receivable

Other Accounts Receivable	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Other Accounts Receivable	Other Accounts Receivable: Other accounts receivable consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Value added tax/consumption tax $ 24,316 $ 23,205 Other 55,561 26,218 Total $ 79,877 $ 49,423

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Inventories: The following table provides a breakdown of inventories at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Finished goods $ 308,462 $ 262,769 Raw materials and work in process (a) 144,886 53,152 Stores, supplies and other 55,380 42,440 Total inventories $ 508,728 $ 358,361 (a) Balance at December 31, 2015 includes $39.1 million of work in process related to the Lithium product category. Approximately 17% and 28% of our inventories are valued using the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The portion of our domestic inventories stated on the LIFO basis amounted to $85.1 million and $100.7 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, which are below replacement cost by approximately $36.9 million and $43.0 million , respectively.

Other Current Assets

Other Current Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Assets [Abstract]
Other Current Assets	Other Current Assets: Other current assets consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Deferred income taxes—current (a) $ — $ 1,801 Income tax receivables 23,740 22,837 Prepaid expenses 43,280 41,448 Other 4,331 — Total $ 71,351 $ 66,086 (a) See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.”

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Useful Lives (Years) December 31, 2015 2014 Land (a) — $ 145,912 $ 56,249 Land improvements 5 – 30 59,423 49,099 Buildings and improvements (a) 10 – 45 297,163 214,364 Machinery and equipment (b) 2 – 45 2,305,641 2,106,451 Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs 7 – 60 652,871 85,888 Construction in progress — 420,152 108,619 Total $ 3,881,162 $ 2,620,670 (a) Includes Land under capital lease of $2.8 million and Buildings and improvements under capital lease of $9.9 million at December 31, 2015 . (b) Consists primarily of (1) short-lived production equipment components, office and building equipment and other equipment with estimated lives ranging 2 – 7 years, (2) production process equipment (intermediate components) with estimated lives ranging 8 – 19 years, (3) production process equipment (major unit components) with estimated lives ranging 20 – 29 years, and (4) production process equipment (infrastructure and other) with estimated lives ranging 30 – 45 years. In 2015, approximately $1.4 billion was allocated to Property, plant and equipment in connection with the acquisition of Rockwood. See Note 2, “Acquisitions” for additional information about the amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed upon the acquisition of Rockwood. In 2014, we sold our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets to SI Group, Inc. Included in the transaction were our manufacturing sites in Orangeburg, South Carolina and Jinshan, China, along with our antioxidant product lines manufactured in Ningbo, China. In connection with the sale, net property, plant and equipment was reduced by $100.0 million . See Note 3 “Divestitures” for additional information about this transaction. The cost of property, plant and equipment, including buildings and improvements under capital lease, is depreciated generally by the straight-line method. Depletion of long-term mineral rights is based on the units-of-production method. Depreciation expense amounted to $180.7 million , $97.9 million and $99.3 million during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Depreciation expense related to discontinued operations was $2.3 million and $8.6 million during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Interest capitalized on significant capital projects in 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was $11.2 million , $2.4 million and $6.1 million , respectively. As of December 31, 2015 , accumulated amortization for assets under capital lease acquired from Rockwood was $0.3 million .

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands). December 31, 2015 2014 Joint ventures (a) $ 430,952 $ 169,891 Nonmarketable securities 208 177 Marketable equity securities 24,257 23,974 Total $ 455,417 $ 194,042 (a) Balance at December 31, 2015 excludes our investment in Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG (“Magnifin”), which is included in Assets held for sale. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures.” Our ownership positions in significant unconsolidated investments are shown below: December 31, 2015 2014 2013 * Windfield Holdings Pty Ltd - a joint venture with Sichuan Tianqi Lithium Industries, Inc., that mines lithium ore and produces lithium concentrate 49 % — % — % * Nippon Aluminum Alkyls - a joint venture with Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. that produces aluminum alkyls 50 % 50 % 50 % * Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG - a joint venture with Radex Heraklith Industriebeteiligung AG that produces specialty magnesium hydroxide products 50 % 50 % 50 % * Nippon Ketjen Company Limited - a joint venture with Sumitomo Metal Mining Company Limited that produces refinery catalysts 50 % 50 % 50 % * Eurecat S.A. - a joint venture with IFP Investissements for refinery catalysts regeneration services 50 % 50 % 50 % * Fábrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A. - a joint venture with Petrobras Quimica S.A. - PETROQUISA that produces catalysts and includes catalysts research and product development activities 50 % 50 % 50 % Our investment in the significant unconsolidated joint ventures above, including Magnifin, amounted to $402.6 million and $148.3 million as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, and the amount included in Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income totaled $25.4 million , $34.7 million and $32.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. As further described in Note 25, “Segment and Geographic Area Information,” Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2015 was reduced by $27.1 million related to the utilization of the inventory markup to fair value in connection with the acquisition of Rockwood. Undistributed earnings attributable to our significant unconsolidated investments represented approximately $105.9 million and $107.8 million of our consolidated retained earnings at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , 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, 2015 2014 Summary of Balance Sheet Information: Current assets $ 331,630 $ 226,392 Noncurrent assets 935,790 181,343 Total assets $ 1,267,420 $ 407,735 Current liabilities $ 106,966 $ 74,242 Noncurrent liabilities 339,604 63,585 Total liabilities $ 446,570 $ 137,827 Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Summary of Statements of Income Information: Net sales $ 560,376 $ 499,394 $ 499,941 Gross profit $ 253,569 $ 164,063 $ 168,898 Income before income taxes $ 157,501 $ 101,983 $ 101,680 Net income $ 111,491 $ 71,466 $ 71,322 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 $58.1 million , $39.6 million and $20.1 million in 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. At December 31, 2015 and 2014 , the carrying amount of our investments in unconsolidated joint ventures exceeded the amount of underlying equity in net assets by approximately $11.5 million and $7.0 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, 2015 and 2014 , $0.8 million and $1.0 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 Company holds a 49% equity interest in Windfield Holdings Pty Ltd (“Windfield”), which we acquired in the Rockwood acquisition. With regards to the Company’s ownership in Windfield, the parties share risks and benefits disproportionate to their voting interests. As a result, the Company considers Windfield to be a variable interest entity (“VIE”). However, the Company does not consolidate Windfield as it is not the primary beneficiary. The carrying amount of our 49% equity interest in Windfield, which is our most significant VIE, was $280.2 million at December 31, 2015 . The Company’s aggregate net investment in all other entities which it considers to be VIE’s for which the Company is not the primary beneficiary was $27.6 million and $6.2 million at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 , respectively. Our unconsolidated VIE’s are reported in Investments in the consolidated balance sheets. The Company does not guarantee debt for, or have other financial support obligations to, these entities, and its maximum exposure to loss in connection with its continuing involvement with these entities is limited to the carrying value of the investments. Included in the consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2015, is a return of capital from Windfield of $98.0 million . 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, 2015 and 2014 , these marketable securities amounted to $21.6 million and $22.2 million , respectively. At December 31, 2015 and 2014 , loans receivable from our 50% -owned joint venture, Saudi Organometallic Chemicals Company (“SOCC”), totaled approximately $30.0 million and are included in Other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Interest on these loans is based on either the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) or Saudi Arabia Inter-Bank Offered Rate (“SAIBOR”), plus a margin of 1.275% , per annum. Principal repayments on amounts outstanding under this arrangement are required as mutually agreed upon by the joint venture partners, but with any outstanding balances due in full no later than December 31, 2021.

Other Assets

Other Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other Assets	Other Assets: Other assets consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Deferred income taxes—noncurrent (a) $ 76,025 $ 62,440 Assets related to unrecognized tax benefits (a) 50,875 22,100 Long-term advances to joint ventures (b) 31,780 34,084 Deferred financing costs (c) 19,605 23,583 Other 38,713 18,749 Total $ 216,998 $ 160,956 (a) See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.” (b) See Note 10, “Investments.” (c) See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt.”

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, trademarks, patents and other intangibles. The following table summarizes the changes in goodwill by operating segment for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Performance Chemicals Refining Solutions Chemetall Surface Treatment All Other Total Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 42,025 $ 218,382 $ — $ 23,796 $ 284,203 Divestitures (a) — — — (15,088 ) (15,088 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments (9 ) (25,725 ) — (119 ) (25,853 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 42,016 192,657 — 8,589 243,262 Acquisition of Rockwood 1,293,467 — 1,482,517 41,151 2,817,135 Other acquisitions (b) — — 23,993 — 23,993 Reclass to assets held for sale (c) — — — (46,794 ) (46,794 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments (47,659 ) (19,929 ) (73,251 ) (2,946 ) (143,785 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 1,287,824 $ 172,728 $ 1,433,259 $ — $ 2,893,811 (a) In 2014, we reduced goodwill by $15.1 million in connection with the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3 “Divestitures” for additional information about this transaction. (b) Primarily relates to the acquisition of the remaining interest in Shanghai Chemetall. See Note 2, “Acquisitions.” (c) See Note 3, “Divestitures.” Other intangibles consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Customer Lists and Relationships Trade Names and Trademarks (a) Patents and Technology Other (b) Total Gross Asset Value Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 86,426 $ 26,907 $ 48,743 $ 38,342 $ 200,418 Acquisitions (c) — — 5,228 — 5,228 Divestitures (d) (34,892 ) (8,171 ) (11,316 ) (14,161 ) (68,540 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (3,055 ) (1,181 ) (2,257 ) (740 ) (7,233 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 48,479 17,555 40,398 23,441 129,873 Acquisition of Rockwood 1,264,226 363,120 227,838 26,410 1,881,594 Other acquisitions (e) 76,052 — 1,433 73 77,558 Reclass to assets held for sale (f) (16,608 ) — (54,060 ) (1,454 ) (72,122 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (88,092 ) (25,468 ) (15,508 ) (6,117 ) (135,185 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 1,284,057 $ 355,207 $ 200,101 $ 42,353 $ 1,881,718 Accumulated Amortization Balance at December 31, 2013 $ (35,988 ) $ (8,970 ) $ (40,354 ) $ (26,903 ) $ (112,215 ) Amortization (2,839 ) (824 ) (388 ) (1,686 ) (5,737 ) Divestitures (d) 14,487 1,539 5,738 5,820 27,584 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 1,409 343 2,173 695 4,620 Balance at December 31, 2014 (22,931 ) (7,912 ) (32,831 ) (22,074 ) (85,748 ) Amortization (51,926 ) (12,228 ) (12,501 ) (627 ) (77,282 ) Reclass to assets held for sale (f) 596 — 3,880 1,322 5,798 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 2,303 381 1,675 4,202 8,561 Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (71,958 ) $ (19,759 ) $ (39,777 ) $ (17,177 ) $ (148,671 ) Net Book Value at December 31, 2014 $ 25,548 $ 9,643 $ 7,567 $ 1,367 $ 44,125 Net Book Value at December 31, 2015 $ 1,212,099 $ 335,448 $ 160,324 $ 25,176 $ 1,733,047 (a) Included in Trade Names and Trademarks are indefinite-lived intangible assets with a gross carrying amount of $9.2 million and $113.1 million at December 31, 2014 and 2015 , respectively. (b) Included in Other is an indefinite-lived intangible asset with a gross carrying amount of $21.9 million at December 31, 2015. (c) Increase in Patents and Technology relates to a purchase accounting adjustment in connection with our acquisition of Cambridge Chemical Company, Ltd. (d) In 2014 we reduced intangible assets by $68.5 million and related accumulated amortization by $27.6 million in connection with the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3 “Divestitures” for additional information about this transaction. (e) Primarily relates to the acquisition of the remaining interest in Shanghai Chemetall. See Note 2, “Acquisitions.” (f) See Note 3, “Divestitures.” Useful lives range from 15 – 25 years for customer lists and relationships; 11 – 20 years for trade names and trademarks; 17 – 20 years for patents and technology; and 5 – 15 years for other. Amortization of other intangibles amounted to $77.3 million , $5.7 million and $8.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Included in amortization for the year ended December 31, 2015 is $49.2 million of amortization using the pattern of economic benefit method. Amortization of other intangibles related to discontinued operations was $0.9 million and $3.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Total estimated amortization expense of other intangibles, excluding other intangibles in assets held for sale, for the next five fiscal years is as follows (in thousands): Estimated Amortization Expense 2016 $ 90,002 2017 $ 91,485 2018 $ 92,884 2019 $ 93,275 2020 $ 93,189

Accrued Expenses

Accrued Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses	Accrued Expenses: Accrued expenses consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Employee benefits, payroll and related taxes $ 125,236 $ 49,072 Obligations in connection with Rockwood acquisition (a) 128,881 — Other (b) 148,262 117,102 Total $ 402,379 $ 166,174 (a) Includes accruals related to certain litigation matters and businesses divested by Rockwood prior to the Acquisition Closing Date. (b) No individual component exceeds 5% of total current liabilities.

Long-Term Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	Long-Term Debt: Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Term loan facilities $ 1,250,000 $ — 1.875% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $5,109 at December 31, 2015 and $6,605 at December 31, 2014 763,946 844,315 3.00% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $244 at December 31, 2015 and $306 at December 31, 2014 249,756 249,694 4.15% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $1,294 at December 31, 2015 and $1,439 at December 31, 2014 423,706 423,561 4.50% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $1,557 at December 31, 2015 and $1,871 at December 31, 2014 348,443 348,129 5.10% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $3 at December 31, 2014 — 324,997 5.45% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $995 at December 31, 2015 and $1,029 at December 31, 2014 349,005 348,971 Commercial paper notes 351,349 367,178 Fixed rate foreign borrowings 995 1,958 Variable-rate foreign bank loans 77,452 25,139 Variable-rate domestic bank loans 20,479 — Capital lease obligations 16,807 — Miscellaneous 81 189 Total long-term debt 3,852,019 2,934,131 Less amounts due within one year 677,345 711,096 Long-term debt, less current portion $ 3,174,674 $ 2,223,035 Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt as of December 31, 2015 are as follows (in millions): 2016 — $677.3 ; 2017 — $59.1 ; 2018 — $86.4 ; 2019 — $335.5 ; 2020 — $1,158.4 ; thereafter— $1,544.5 . Rockwood Acquisition Financing The net proceeds from senior notes we issued in the fourth quarter of 2014, together with borrowings under our revolving credit agreement, commercial paper notes, August 15, 2014 term loan credit agreement and a senior unsecured cash bridge facility, were used to finance the cash portion of the consideration for the acquisition of Rockwood, pay fees and expenses related to the acquisition, repay our 5.10% senior notes, with the remainder, if any, used for general corporate purposes. Senior Notes In the fourth quarter of 2014, we issued a series of senior notes (collectively, the “2014 Senior Notes”) as follows: • €700.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes, issued on December 8, 2014, bearing interest at a rate of 1.875% payable annually on December 8 of each year, beginning in 2015. The effective interest rate on these senior notes is approximately 2.10% . These senior notes mature on December 8, 2021. • $250.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes, issued on November 24, 2014, bearing interest at a rate of 3.00% payable semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning June 1, 2015. The effective interest rate on these senior notes is approximately 3.18% . These senior notes mature on December 1, 2019. • $425.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes, issued on November 24, 2014, bearing interest at a rate of 4.15% payable semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning June 1, 2015. The effective interest rate on these senior notes is approximately 5.06% . These senior notes mature on December 1, 2024. • $350.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes, issued on November 24, 2014, bearing interest at a rate of 5.45% payable semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year, beginning June 1, 2015. The effective interest rate on these senior notes is approximately 5.50% . These senior notes mature on December 1, 2044. Upon completion of the Rockwood acquisition, we assumed Rockwood’s senior notes with an aggregate principal amount of $1.25 billion . These senior notes bore interest at a rate of 4.625% payable semi-annually on April 15 and October 15 of each year, and had a scheduled maturity of October 15, 2020. At October 15, 2015, the carrying amount of the 4.625% senior notes included an unamortized premium of approximately $38.0 million , which resulted from an adjustment to fair value upon our assumption of the notes from Rockwood. The effective interest rate of the notes was approximately 3.95% . Under the terms of the indenture governing the 4.625% senior notes, as amended and supplemented, on October 15, 2015, our wholly-owned subsidiary, Rockwood Specialties Group, Inc., redeemed all of the outstanding 4.625% senior notes at a redemption price equal to 103.469% of the principal amount of the notes, representing a premium of $43.3 million , plus accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date. The guarantees of the 4.625% senior notes and the 2014 Senior Notes were released upon repayment of the 4.625% senior notes. Included in Interest and financing expenses in our consolidated statements of income and Other, net, in our consolidated statements of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2015 is a loss on early extinguishment of approximately $5.4 million related to these senior notes. 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. Our $325.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior notes, which were issued on January 20, 2005 and bore interest at a rate of 5.10% , matured and were repaid on February 1, 2015. The effective interest rate on these senior notes was approximately 5.19% . As a result of the refinancing of these senior notes prior to December 31, 2014, these senior notes were included in Current portion of long-term debt at December 31, 2014. In anticipation of refinancing our 5.10% 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. Our risk management objective and strategy for undertaking this hedge was to eliminate the variability in the interest rate and partial credit spread on the 20 future semi-annual coupon payments that we will pay in connection with our 4.15% senior notes. The notional amount of the swap was $325.0 million and the fixed rate was 3.281% , with the cash settlement 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 the swap was settled (October 15, 2014). This derivative financial instrument was designated and accounted for as a cash flow hedge under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging . We determined there was no ineffectiveness during the term of the swap. On October 15, 2014, the swap was settled, resulting in a payment to the counterparty of $33.4 million . This amount was recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income and is being amortized to interest expense over the life of the 4.15% senior notes. The amount to be reclassified to interest expense from Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income during the next twelve months is approximately $3.3 million . In connection with the offering of the 1.875% Euro-denominated senior notes which were priced on December 1, 2014, we entered into two forward contracts on November 24, 2014, each with a notional value of €350.0 million , to exchange a total of €700.0 million for U.S. Dollars, with settlement occurring on December 18, 2014, and with the total notional value representing an amount equivalent to the gross proceeds from the offering of the 1.875% Euro-denominated senior notes. The objective of entering into these forward contracts was to minimize the financial impact of changes in the Euro-to-U.S. Dollar exchange rate with respect to our foreign subsidiaries where the Euro serves as the functional currency. From the effective date of the contracts until the date of settlement, the forward contracts were designated as effective hedges of our net investment in these foreign subsidiaries. Upon settlement, a gain of $5.2 million was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, and such amount is expected to remain in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income until the complete or substantially complete liquidation of our investment in these foreign subsidiaries. On December 18, 2014, the carrying value of the 1.875% Euro-denominated senior notes was designated as an effective hedge of our net investment in foreign subsidiaries where the Euro serves as the functional currency, and beginning on the date of designation, gains or losses on the revaluation of these senior notes to our reporting currency have been and will be recorded in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income. During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 , gains of $50.9 million and $12.8 million were recorded in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income in connection with the revaluation of these senior notes to our reporting currency. September 2015 Term Loan Agreement The 4.625% senior notes we assumed from Rockwood were repaid with proceeds from a new term loan agreement we entered into on September 14, 2015 (the “September 2015 Term Loan Agreement”) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (the “Administrative Agent”) and certain other lenders. The September 2015 Term Loan Agreement provides for borrowings under a 364-day term loan facility (the “364-Day Facility”) and a five-year term loan facility (the “Five-Year Facility”), or collectively, the “Term loan facilities.” As of December 31, 2015, aggregate amounts outstanding under the 364-Day Facility and the Five-Year Facility were $300.0 million and $950.0 million , respectively. As of February 19, 2016, we repaid the 364-Day Facility in full and we repaid approximately $31 million of borrowings under the Five-Year Facility, each primarily with proceeds from the sale of the Company’s Tribotecc metal sulfides business and the sale of the Company’s minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals businesses, both of which closed in the first quarter of 2016. Borrowings under the facilities bear interest equal to, at the option of the Company: (a) LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 1.000% to 1.875% per annum depending upon the long-term, unsecured, senior, non-credit enhanced debt rating of the Company, or (b) a base rate (defined as the highest of (i) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.50% ; (ii) the rate of interest in effect for such day as publicly announced from time to time by the Administrative Agent as its “prime rate”; or (iii) one-month LIBOR plus 1.00% ) plus a margin of 0.000% to 0.875% per annum depending upon the long-term, unsecured, senior, non-credit enhanced debt rating of the Company. As of December 31, 2015, the interest rate on both Term loan facilities was LIBOR plus 1.375% . Borrowings under the 364-Day Facility were required to be repaid 364 days after initial funding. Borrowings under the Five-Year Facility are required to be repaid in equal quarterly installments on the last business day of each of March, June, September and December, beginning with September 30, 2016, and ending with the last such day to occur prior to the fifth anniversary after initial funding (each a “Payment Date”), in an aggregate principal amount equal to (a) in the case of each Payment Date occurring on or after the first anniversary and prior to the second anniversary of initial funding, 1.25% of the aggregate principal amount of such loans, and (b) in the case of each Payment Date occurring on or after the second anniversary of initial funding, equal to 2.5% of the aggregate principal amount of such loans. On the fifth anniversary after initial funding, any remaining amounts outstanding under the Five-Year Facility become due and payable. Additionally, the agreement requires that proceeds from divestitures of the Company’s Tribotecc metal sulfides business and the Company’s minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals businesses, and intended divestiture of its Fine Chemistry Services business, must be used to repay amounts outstanding under the September 2015 Term Loan Agreement. Borrowings under the September 2015 Term Loan Agreement are subject to customary affirmative and negative covenants, including a maximum leverage ratio requirement that is aligned with the maximum leverage ratio requirement of our February 2014 Credit Agreement, as defined below. Credit Agreement Our revolving, unsecured credit agreement dated as of February 7, 2014, as amended, (the “February 2014 Credit Agreement”) currently provides for borrowings of up to $1.0 billion and matures on February 7, 2020. Borrowings bear interest at variable rates based on the LIBOR for deposits in the relevant currency plus an applicable margin which ranges from 1.000% to 1.700% , depending on the Company’s credit rating from Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (“S&P”), Moody’s Investors Services (“Moody’s”) and Fitch Ratings (“Fitch”). The applicable margin on the facility was 1.300% as of December 31, 2015 . Borrowings under the February 2014 Credit Agreement are conditioned upon compliance with the following covenants: (a) 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; (b) with the exception of certain liens as specified in the agreement, 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 (c) with the exception of certain indebtedness as specified in the 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. On August 15, 2014, certain amendments were made to the February 2014 Credit Agreement which include the following: (a) an increase in the maximum leverage ratio (as described above) from 3.50 to 4.50 for the first four quarters following the completion of the acquisition of Rockwood, stepping down by 0.25 on a quarterly basis thereafter until reaching 3.50 ; and (b) requiring subsidiaries of Albemarle that guarantee the 2014 Senior Notes to also guarantee the February 2014 Credit Agreement. In January 2015, we borrowed $250.0 million under the February 2014 Credit Agreement in connection with the acquisition of Rockwood, and such amount was repaid in full in February 2015. As of December 31, 2015 , there were no borrowings outstanding under the February 2014 Credit Agreement. Commercial Paper Notes 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 “Commercial Paper 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 Commercial Paper 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 Commercial Paper Notes, if necessary. Aggregate borrowings outstanding under the February 2014 Credit Agreement and the Commercial Paper Notes will not exceed the $1.0 billion current maximum amount available under the February 2014 Credit Agreement. The Commercial Paper 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 issuance. The maturities of the Commercial Paper Notes will vary but may not exceed 397 days from the date of issue. The definitive documents relating to the commercial paper program contain customary representations, warranties, default and indemnification provisions. At December 31, 2015 , we had $351.3 million of Commercial Paper Notes outstanding bearing a weighted-average interest rate of approximately 1.07% and a weighted-average maturity of 29 days . August 2014 Term Loan Agreement and Cash Bridge Facility On August 15, 2014, we entered into a term loan credit agreement (the “August 2014 Term Loan Agreement”) providing for a tranche of senior unsecured term loans in an aggregate amount of $1.0 billion that were intended to be used as short-term borrowings to fund a portion of the cash consideration for the Rockwood acquisition and pay related fees and expenses. In January 2015, we borrowed and repaid $1.0 billion and $816.5 million , respectively, under the August 2014 Term Loan Agreement. In February 2015, the remaining balance outstanding was repaid in full. The weighted-average interest rate on borrowings under the August 2014 Term Loan Agreement was approximately 1.67% . This agreement matured 364 days following the date of funding, which occurred on January 12, 2015. On December 2, 2014, we entered into an agreement for a senior unsecured cash bridge facility (the “Cash Bridge Facility”) pursuant to which the lenders thereunder would provide up to $1.15 billion in loans intended to be used as short-term borrowings to fund a portion of the cash consideration for the Rockwood acquisition and pay related fees and expenses, with maturity 60 days following the completion of the Rockwood acquisition. In January 2015, we borrowed and repaid $800.0 million under the Cash Bridge Facility. The weighted-average interest rate on borrowings under the Cash Bridge Facility was approximately 1.67% . Structuring and underwriting fees of approximately $19.0 million were paid in 2014 in connection with bridge financing arrangements, which are reflected in Other, net, in our consolidated statements of cash flows. These costs were capitalized and were expensed over the term of the facilities or until the date at which permanent financing was obtained and the facilities were eliminated. Accordingly, we expensed $16.7 million in 2014 and $2.3 million in 2015, which is reflected in Other income(expenses), net, in the consolidated statements of income and Other, net, in our consolidated statements of cash flows. Financing Costs Debt financing costs paid in 2014 in connection with the 2014 Senior Notes, August 2014 Term Loan Agreement and February 2014 Credit Agreement were $17.6 million . In 2015, we paid approximately $4.5 million of debt financing costs primarily related to the 2014 Senior Notes, the September 2015 Term Loan Agreement and amendments to the February 2014 Credit Agreement. Other We have additional uncommitted credit lines with various U.S. and foreign financial institutions that provide for borrowings of up to approximately $257 million at December 31, 2015 . Outstanding borrowings under these agreements were $98.9 million and $27.1 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The average interest rate on borrowings under these agreements during 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was approximately 0.74% , 0.83% and 0.76% , respectively. At December 31, 2015 and 2014 , we had the ability and intent to refinance our borrowings under our other existing credit lines with borrowings under the February 2014 Credit Agreement. Therefore, the amounts outstanding under those credit lines, if any, are classified as long-term debt at December 31, 2015 and 2014 . At December 31, 2015 , we had the ability to borrow $648.7 million under our commercial paper program and the February 2014 Credit Agreement. We believe that as of December 31, 2015 , we were, and currently are, in compliance with all of our debt covenants.

Pension Plans and Other Postret

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits	Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits: We maintain various noncontributory defined benefit pension plans covering certain employees, primarily in the U.S., the United Kingdom (“U.K.”), Germany and Japan. In connection with the acquisition of Rockwood, in the first quarter of 2015 we assumed the obligations of various defined benefit pension plans that were maintained by Rockwood which cover certain employees, primarily in the U.S., the U.K. and Germany. 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. Our U.S. and U.K. defined benefit plans for non-represented employees are closed to new participants, with no additional benefits accruing under these plans as participants’ accrued benefits have been frozen. 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. The following provides a reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status, as well as a summary of significant assumptions, for our defined benefit pension plans (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 Year Ended December 31, 2014 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Change in benefit obligations: Benefit obligation at January 1 $ 729,652 $ 53,112 $ 629,337 $ 49,245 Service cost 1,233 6,034 7,029 1,746 Interest cost 31,231 9,875 30,491 1,571 Plan amendments — 870 — — Actuarial (gain) loss (55,851 ) (42,977 ) 130,887 10,341 Benefits paid (38,300 ) (16,118 ) (37,866 ) (3,913 ) Acquisitions 39,125 416,150 — — Divestitures (a) — — (30,226 ) — Reclass to liabilities held for sale — (26,608 ) — — Employee contributions — 478 — 283 Foreign exchange gain — (26,708 ) — (6,161 ) Settlements/curtailments — (582 ) — — Other — 331 — — Benefit obligation at December 31 $ 707,090 $ 373,857 $ 729,652 $ 53,112 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at January 1 $ 598,250 $ 9,444 $ 605,604 $ 10,941 Actual return on plan assets (16,789 ) 140 53,696 499 Employer contributions 1,606 16,392 7,042 2,940 Benefits paid (38,300 ) (16,118 ) (37,866 ) (3,913 ) Acquisitions 29,314 109,875 — — Divestitures (a) — — (30,226 ) — Employee contributions — 478 — 283 Foreign exchange loss — (3,237 ) — (1,306 ) Settlements/curtailments — (582 ) — — Other — 314 — — Fair value of plan assets at December 31 $ 574,081 $ 116,706 $ 598,250 $ 9,444 Funded status at December 31 $ (133,009 ) $ (257,151 ) $ (131,402 ) $ (43,668 ) (a) Reduction in benefit obligations and plan assets in 2014 is in connection with the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3 “Divestitures” for additional information about this transaction. December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets: Current liabilities (accrued expenses) $ (1,110 ) $ (7,498 ) $ (3,219 ) $ (1,316 ) Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits) (131,899 ) (249,653 ) (128,183 ) (42,352 ) Net pension liability $ (133,009 ) $ (257,151 ) $ (131,402 ) $ (43,668 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income: Prior service benefit $ (211 ) $ (1,052 ) $ (286 ) $ (321 ) Net amount recognized $ (211 ) $ (1,052 ) $ (286 ) $ (321 ) Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate 4.67 % 2.89 % 4.19 % 1.85 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.17 % — % 3.40 % The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans was $1.1 billion and $776.6 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , 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, as well as a summary of significant assumptions, for our postretirement benefit plans (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Change in benefit obligations: Benefit obligation at January 1 $ 64,500 $ 62,832 Service cost 137 216 Interest cost 2,573 3,040 Actuarial (gain) loss (5,682 ) 3,741 Benefits paid (5,042 ) (5,329 ) Acquisitions 2,607 — Settlements/curtailments (a) (2,594 ) — Benefit obligation at December 31 $ 56,499 $ 64,500 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at January 1 $ 4,439 $ 5,620 Actual return on plan assets 280 214 Employer contributions 3,615 3,934 Benefits paid (5,042 ) (5,329 ) Fair value of plan assets at December 31 $ 3,292 $ 4,439 Funded status at December 31 $ (53,207 ) $ (60,061 ) (a) We assumed responsibility for one domestic OPEB plan in connection with the acquisition of Rockwood which covered a small number of active employees and retirees. This plan was terminated in the first quarter of 2015 and provisions were made for the affected employees and retirees to receive benefits under an existing plan. December 31, 2015 2014 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets: Current liabilities (accrued expenses) $ (3,560 ) $ (3,637 ) Noncurrent liabilities (postretirement benefits) (49,647 ) (56,424 ) Net postretirement liability $ (53,207 ) $ (60,061 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income: Prior service benefit $ 239 $ 334 Net amount recognized $ 239 $ 334 Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate 4.59 % 4.15 % Rate of compensation increase 3.50 % 3.50 % The components of pension benefits cost (credit) are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 December 31, 2013 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Service cost $ 1,233 $ 6,034 $ 7,029 $ 1,746 $ 12,177 $ 1,785 Interest cost 31,231 9,875 30,491 1,571 28,406 1,477 Expected return on assets (41,635 ) (6,507 ) (39,714 ) (427 ) (38,975 ) (417 ) Actuarial loss (gain) 2,577 (35,813 ) 116,705 10,270 (130,297 ) (2,619 ) Amortization of prior service benefit 75 43 (727 ) 50 (741 ) 52 Total net pension benefits (credit) cost $ (6,519 ) $ (26,368 ) $ 113,784 $ 13,210 $ (129,430 ) $ 278 Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 4.18 % 2.34 % 5.14 % 3.41 % 4.10 % 3.12 % Expected return on plan assets 6.85 % 5.63 % 6.91 % 4.00 % 7.25 % 4.35 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.16 % 3.50 % 3.16 % 3.50 % 3.36 % Effective January 1, 2016 , the weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets for the U.S. and foreign defined benefit pension plans is 6.90% and 5.65% , respectively. The estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic pension costs during 2016 are as follows (in thousands): U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Amortization of prior service benefit $ 75 $ 853 The components of postretirement benefits cost (credit) are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Service cost $ 137 $ 216 $ 309 Interest cost 2,573 3,040 2,764 Expected return on assets (244 ) (342 ) (413 ) Actuarial (gain) loss (5,707 ) 3,868 (6,120 ) Amortization of prior service benefit (95 ) (95 ) (95 ) Settlements/curtailments (2,594 ) — — Total net postretirement benefits (credit) cost $ (5,930 ) $ 6,687 $ (3,555 ) Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 4.15 % 5.03 % 4.00 % Expected return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % Rate of compensation increase 3.50 % 3.50 % 3.50 % Effective January 1, 2016 , the weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets for our postretirement benefit plans is 7.00% . The estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic postretirement costs during 2016 are as follows (in thousands): Other Postretirement Benefits Amortization of prior service benefit $ (95 ) 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, 2015 . 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, 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Pension Assets: Domestic Equity (a) $ 168,945 $ 166,612 $ 2,333 $ — International Equity (b) 143,976 87,311 56,665 — Fixed Income (c) 287,809 240,143 47,666 — Absolute Return (d) 83,127 — — 83,127 Cash 6,930 6,930 — — Total Pension Assets $ 690,787 $ 500,996 $ 106,664 $ 83,127 Postretirement Assets: Fixed Income (c) $ 3,292 $ — $ 3,292 $ — (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 international equity funds which invest 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 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, 2015 (in thousands): Absolute Return: Year Ended December 31, 2015 Beginning Balance $ 80,740 Transfers in due to acquisition 103,237 Purchases 5,641 Sales (103,035 ) Total losses relating to assets sold during the period (a) (610 ) Total unrealized losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date (a) (2,846 ) Ending Balance $ 83,127 (a) These 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, 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2014 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Pension Assets: Domestic Equity (a) $ 169,581 $ 169,581 $ — $ — International Equity (b) 85,007 85,007 — — Fixed Income (c) 268,911 255,828 13,083 — Absolute Return (d) 80,740 — — 80,740 Cash 3,455 3,455 — — Total Pension Assets $ 607,694 $ 513,871 $ 13,083 $ 80,740 Postretirement Assets: Fixed Income (c) $ 4,439 $ — $ 4,439 $ — (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 international equity funds which invest 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 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, 2014 (in thousands): Absolute Return: Year Ended December 31, 2014 Beginning Balance $ 123,599 Purchases 50,506 Sales (96,397 ) Total losses relating to assets sold during the period (a) (158 ) Total unrealized gains relating to assets still held at the reporting date (a) 3,190 Ending Balance $ 80,740 (a) These (losses) gains are recognized in the consolidated balance sheets and are included as changes in plan assets in the tables above. The Company’s pension plan assets in the U.S. and U.K. represent approximately 98% of the total pension plan assets. The investment objective of these pension plan assets is to achieve solid returns while preserving capital to meet current plan cash flow requirements. Assets should participate in rising markets, with defensive action in declining markets expected to an even greater degree. 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, 2015 and 2014 , equity securities held by our pension and OPEB plans did not include direct ownership of Albemarle common stock. The weighted-average target allocations as of the measurement date are as follows: Target Allocation Equity securities 44 % Fixed income 43 % Absolute return 12 % Other 1 % 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 $21.6 million , $13.9 million and $13.3 million during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. We expect contributions to our domestic nonqualified and foreign qualified and nonqualified pension plans to approximate $13 million in 2016 . Also, we expect to pay approximately $4 million in premiums to our U.S. postretirement benefit plan in 2016 . However, we may choose to make additional voluntary pension contributions in excess of these amounts. The current forecast of benefit payments, which reflects expected future service and excludes plans associated with businesses that were divested in the first quarter of 2016, amounts to (in millions): U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Other Postretirement Benefits 2016 $ 40.3 $ 13.9 $ 4.8 2017 $ 41.4 $ 14.7 $ 4.7 2018 $ 42.8 $ 14.6 $ 4.5 2019 $ 43.8 $ 14.5 $ 4.3 2020 $ 44.8 $ 15.1 $ 4.1 2021-2025 $ 230.9 $ 83.5 $ 18.8 We have a supplemental executive retirement plan (“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. Costs (credits) relating to our SERP were ($2.1) million , $7.3 million and ($1.5) million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. The projected benefit obligation for the SERP recognized in the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2015 and 2014 was $23.1 million and $26.4 million , respectively. The benefit expenses and obligations of this SERP are included in the tables above. Benefits of $1.1 million are expected to be paid to SERP retirees in 2016 . 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. At December 31, 2015 , 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. Defined Contribution Plans 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. On October 1, 2012 our Board of Directors approved certain 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 revised the contribution for all participants to be based on 5% of eligible employee compensation. The employer portion of contributions to our U.S. defined contribution pension plan amounted to $12.8 million , $8.4 million , and $8.8 million in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. 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 $11.7 million , $10.0 million and $10.6 million in 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Contributions for 2015 include our contributions to Rockwood’s former 401(k) plan which was merged into Albemarle’s 401(k) plan effective December 1, 2015. 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 $7.2 million , $10.1 million and $10.3 million in 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively, in annual premiums and related costs pertaining to this plan. Multiemployer Plan Certain current and former employees of Rockwood participate in a multiemployer plan in Germany, the Pensionskasse Dynamit Nobel Versicherungsverein auf Gegenseitigkeit, Troisdorf (“DN Pensionskasse”), that provides monthly payments in the case of disability, death or retirement. The risks of participating in a multiemployer plan are different from single-employer plans in the following ways: (a) assets contributed to the multiemployer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers, and (b) if a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligation of the plan may be borne by remaining participating employers. Some participants in the plan are subject to collective bargaining arrangements, which have no fixed expiration date. The contribution and benefit levels are not negotiated or significantly influenced by these collective bargaining arrangements. Also, the benefit levels generally are not subject to reduction. Under German insurance law, the DN Pensionskasse must be fully funded at all times. The DN Pensionskasse was fully funded as of December 31, 2014, the date of the most recently available information for the plan. This funding level would correspond to the highest funding zone status (at least 80% funded) under U.S. pension regulation. Since the plan liabilities need to be fully funded at all times according to local funding requirements, it is unlikely that the DN Pensionskasse plan will fail to fulfill its obligations, however, in such an event, the Company is liable for the benefits of its employees who participate in the plan. Additional information of the DN Pensionskasse is available in the public domain. The majority of the Company’s contributions are tied to employees’ contributions, which are generally calculated as a percentage of base compensation, up to a certain statutory ceiling. Our contributions to this plan were €2.7 million (approximately $3.1 million ) during the year ended December 31, 2015 . The Company’s contributions represented more than 5% of total contributions to the DN Pensionskasse in 2015 . Although the DN Pensionskasse could be subject to a funding improvement plan (“FIP”) in 2016, the DN Pensionskasse was not subject to a FIP at December 31, 2015 .

Other Noncurrent Liabilities

Other Noncurrent Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other Noncurrent Liabilities	Other Noncurrent Liabilities: Other noncurrent liabilities consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions (a) $ 101,677 $ 25,340 Executive deferred compensation plan obligation 21,631 22,168 Environmental liabilities (b) 33,805 4,841 Asset retirement obligations (b) 37,230 15,085 Other 60,483 20,271 Total $ 254,826 $ 87,705 (a) See Note 20, “Income Taxes.” (b) See Note 17, “Commitments and Contingencies.”

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies: In connection with the closing of the Rockwood acquisition on January 12, 2015, we have become liable for both recorded and unrecorded contingencies of Rockwood. We are not aware of any unrecorded contingencies assumed in connection with the Rockwood acquisition whose ultimate outcome will have a material adverse effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial condition or cash flows on an 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. We believe that amounts recorded are adequate for known items which might become due in the current year. Environmental We had the following activity in our recorded environmental liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Balance, beginning of year $ 9,235 $ 16,599 $ 20,322 Expenditures (4,178 ) (4,548 ) (3,013 ) Acquisition of Rockwood 38,666 — — Divestitures (1,826 ) (1,954 ) — Accretion of discount 984 — — Revisions of estimates 150 34 (902 ) Reclass to liabilities held for sale (5,253 ) — — Foreign currency translation (2,480 ) (896 ) 192 Balance, end of year 35,298 9,235 16,599 Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses 1,493 4,394 7,386 Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities $ 33,805 $ 4,841 $ 9,213 As part of the Rockwood acquisition, we assumed $38.7 million of environmental remediation liabilities globally, the majority of which relate to sites in Germany and the U.S. where the Company is currently operating groundwater monitoring and/or remediation systems. For certain locations where the Company is operating these groundwater monitoring and/or remediation systems, prior owners or insurers have assumed all or most of the responsibility. Environmental remediation liabilities assumed as part of the Rockwood acquisition includes discounted liabilities of $24.5 million , discounted at rates ranging from 2.8% to 4.3% , with the undiscounted amount totaling $64.5 million . 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 $18 million before income taxes. We believe that any sum we may be required to pay in connection with environmental remediation matters in excess of the amounts recorded would likely occur over a period of time and would likely 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. Asset Retirement Obligations The following is a reconciliation of our beginning and ending asset retirement obligation balances for 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 Balance, beginning of year $ 15,085 $ 16,930 Acquisition of Rockwood 17,265 — Liabilities incurred 3,636 — Accretion of discount 1,289 323 Liabilities settled — (333 ) Divestitures — (1,816 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments (45 ) (19 ) Balance, end of year $ 37,230 $ 15,085 Our asset retirement obligations are recorded in Other noncurrent liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Asset retirement obligations assumed through the acquisition of Rockwood primarily relate to post-closure reclamation of sites involved in the surface mining and manufacturing of lithium. We are not aware of any conditional asset retirement obligations that would require recognition in our consolidated financial statements. Rental Expense Our rental expenses include a number of operating lease agreements, primarily for office space, transportation equipment and storage facilities. We also have certain buildings and improvements under capital lease. The following schedule details the future non-cancelable minimum lease payments for the next five years and thereafter (in thousands): Operating Leases Capital Leases 2016 $ 14,643 $ 3,163 2017 $ 10,664 $ 3,178 2018 $ 9,217 $ 3,193 2019 $ 7,436 $ 10,201 2020 $ 6,665 $ — Thereafter $ 21,124 $ — 19,735 Less: amount representing interest 2,928 Present value of net minimum obligations $ 16,807 Rental expense was approximately $45.0 million , $31.9 million , and $30.7 million for 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Rental expense related to discontinued operations was approximately $1.3 million and $1.6 million for 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Rental expense is shown net of sublease income which was minimal during 2015 , 2014 and 2013 . Litigation 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 for such proceedings. We also maintain insurance to mitigate certain of such risks. Costs for legal services are generally expensed as incurred. Also see Note 2, “Acquisitions” for a discussion about litigation matters in connection with the Acquisition of Rockwood. Indemnities We are indemnified by third parties in connection with certain matters related to acquired and divested businesses. Although we believe that the financial condition of those parties who may have indemnification obligations to the Company is generally sound, in the event the Company seeks indemnity under any of these agreements or through other means, there can be no assurance that any party who may have obligations to indemnify us will adhere to their obligations and we may have to resort to legal action to enforce our rights under the indemnities. The Company may be subject to indemnity claims relating to properties or businesses it divested, including properties or businesses that Rockwood divested prior to the Acquisition Closing Date. In the opinion of management, and based upon information currently available, the ultimate resolution of any indemnification obligations owed to the Company or by the Company is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. 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): 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Thereafter Letters of credit and other guarantees $ 24,789 $ 11,248 $ 3,190 $ 14 $ 210 $ 24,356 The outstanding letters of credit are primarily related to insurance claim payment guarantees with expiration dates ranging from 2016 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, 2015 . 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. 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.

Stock-based Compensation Expens

Stock-based Compensation Expense	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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 0% to 200% contingent upon the achievement of specific performance criteria over periods ranging from one to three years . Distribution of earned units occurs generally 50% upon completion of the applicable measurement period with the remaining 50% distributed one year thereafter. We granted 313,803 , 222,939 and 297,924 stock options during 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , 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, 2015 , there were 2,622,398 shares available for grant under the Incentive Plan and 451,466 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, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 amounted to $15.2 million , $14.3 million and $10.2 million , respectively, and is included in Cost of goods sold and SG&A expenses in the consolidated statements of income. Total related recognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 amounted to $5.6 million , $5.2 million and $3.7 million , respectively. The following table summarizes information about the Company’s fixed-price stock options as of and for the year ended December 31, 2015 : Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands) Outstanding at December 31, 2014 1,484,243 $ 50.30 6.5 $ 17,887 Granted 313,803 55.74 Exercised (18,000 ) 28.72 Forfeited (98,519 ) 62.98 Expired (4,600 ) 66.14 Outstanding at December 31, 2015 1,676,927 $ 50.76 6.1 $ 14,152 Exercisable at December 31, 2015 998,952 $ 43.95 4.5 $ 14,048 The fair value of each option granted during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions: Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Dividend yield 1.80 % 1.71 % 1.58 % Volatility 32.92 % 33.03 % 33.55 % Average expected life (years) 6 6 6 Risk-free interest rate 2.17 % 2.94 % 2.18 % Fair value of options granted $ 16.04 $ 19.56 $ 19.73 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, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was $0.5 million , $2.4 million and $7.0 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, 2015 is approximately $7.9 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 $0.5 million and $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 , 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, 2015 : Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested, beginning of period 456,018 $ 66.21 Granted 214,610 55.34 Vested (43,177 ) 65.39 Forfeited (130,246 ) 64.50 Nonvested, end of period 497,205 62.04 The weighted average grant date fair value of performance unit awards granted in 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was $11.9 million , $20.1 million and $16.9 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. The weighted average fair value of performance unit awards that vested during 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was $2.5 million , $7.4 million and $14.5 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, 2015 is approximately $13.4 million , calculated based on current expectation of specific performance criteria, and is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average period of approximately 1.6 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, 2015 : Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested, beginning of period 105,288 $ 61.34 Granted 61,156 56.64 Vested (39,073 ) 61.97 Forfeited (9,250 ) 62.37 Nonvested, end of period 118,121 58.62 The weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards granted in 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was $3.5 million , $2.7 million and $3.4 million , respectively. The weighted average fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards that vested in 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was $2.2 million , $2.1 million and $3.2 million , respectively, based on the closing prices of our common stock on the dates of vesting. Total compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested, non-performance based restricted stock and restricted stock units as of December 31, 2015 is approximately $3.5 million and is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average period of 2.1 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.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income	Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income: The components and activity in Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (net of deferred income taxes) consisted of the following during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Foreign Currency Translation (a) Pension and Post-Retirement Benefits (b) Net Investment Hedge Interest Rate Swap (c) Other Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) - balance at December 31, 2012 $ 85,117 $ 989 $ — $ — $ (842 ) $ 85,264 Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 31,704 — — — (2 ) 31,702 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income — (502 ) — — 137 (365 ) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 31,704 (502 ) — — 135 31,337 Other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests (356 ) — — — — (356 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) - balance at December 31, 2013 $ 116,465 $ 487 $ — $ — $ (707 ) $ 116,245 Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (151,059 ) — 11,384 (21,174 ) — (160,849 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (17,750 ) (487 ) — 212 136 (17,889 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (168,809 ) (487 ) 11,384 (20,962 ) 136 (178,738 ) Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 80 — — — — 80 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2014 $ (52,264 ) $ — $ 11,384 $ (20,962 ) $ (571 ) $ (62,413 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (412,999 ) (774 ) 50,861 — 2 (362,910 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income — 16 — 2,101 27 2,144 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (412,999 ) (758 ) 50,861 2,101 29 (360,766 ) Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 1,891 — — — — 1,891 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2015 $ (463,372 ) $ (758 ) $ 62,245 $ (18,861 ) $ (542 ) $ (421,288 ) (a) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income for the year ended December 31, 2014 are included in (Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2014 and resulted from the release of cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments into earnings upon the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3, “Divestitures.” (b) The pre-tax portion of amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income consists of amortization of prior service benefit, which is a component of pension and postretirement benefits cost (credit). See Note 15, “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits.” (c) The pre-tax portion of amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income is included in interest expense. The amount of income tax (expense) benefit allocated to each component of Other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 is provided in the following tables (in thousands): Foreign Currency Translation Pension and Postretirement Benefits Net Investment Hedge (a) Interest Rate Swap (b) Other 2015 Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax $ (451,781 ) $ (751 ) $ 80,746 $ 3,336 $ 19 Income tax benefit (expense) 38,782 (7 ) (29,885 ) (1,235 ) 10 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax $ (412,999 ) $ (758 ) $ 50,861 $ 2,101 $ 29 2014 Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax $ (163,536 ) $ (772 ) $ 17,971 $ (33,091 ) $ 217 Income tax (expense) benefit (5,273 ) 285 (6,587 ) 12,129 (81 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax $ (168,809 ) $ (487 ) $ 11,384 $ (20,962 ) $ 136 2013 Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax $ 29,895 $ (781 ) $ — $ — $ 214 Income tax benefit (expense) 1,809 279 — — (79 ) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax $ 31,704 $ (502 ) $ — $ — $ 135 (a) Other comprehensive income, before tax, for the year ended December 31, 2014 includes $12.8 million related to the revaluation of our euro-denominated senior notes and a $5.2 million gain on the settlement of related foreign currency forward contracts, both of which were designated as a hedge of our net investment in foreign operations. See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” for additional information about these transactions. (b) Other comprehensive (loss), before tax, for the year ended December 31, 2014 includes a realized loss of ($33.4) million on the settlement of our forward starting interest rate swap which was designated and accounted for as a cash flow hedge under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging . See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” for additional information about this interest rate swap.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 2014 2013 Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments: Domestic $ 8,594 $ 45,689 $ 351,731 Foreign 349,593 167,490 186,711 Total $ 358,187 $ 213,179 $ 538,442 Current income tax expense: Federal $ 85,245 $ 36,708 $ 53,953 State 71 3,209 2,195 Foreign 80,104 25,700 18,414 Total $ 165,420 $ 65,617 $ 74,562 Deferred income tax (benefit) expense: Federal $ (129,433 ) $ (32,890 ) $ 69,817 State (1,170 ) (1,139 ) 2,416 Foreign (5,695 ) (13,104 ) (12,350 ) Total $ (136,298 ) $ (47,133 ) $ 59,883 Total income tax expense $ 29,122 $ 18,484 $ 134,445 The reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate to the effective income tax rate is as follows: % of Income Before Income Taxes 2015 2014 2013 Federal statutory rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % State taxes, net of federal tax benefit 1.7 0.2 0.7 Change in valuation allowance (a) 4.7 1.0 (2.2 ) Impact of foreign earnings, net (b) (19.6 ) (24.8 ) (10.7 ) Subpart F income 6.8 1.2 0.4 Deemed repatriation of foreign income (d) 91.6 — — Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries (b)(d) (99.6 ) (0.3 ) 2.9 Nondeductible transaction costs 1.8 — — Depletion (1.6 ) (2.4 ) (0.9 ) Revaluation of unrecognized tax benefits/reserve requirements (c) (11.3 ) (0.6 ) (0.1 ) Domestic manufacturing tax deduction (0.9 ) (2.2 ) (0.9 ) Other items, net (0.5 ) 1.6 0.8 Effective income tax rate 8.1 % 8.7 % 25.0 % (a) During 2013, our Avonmouth, U.K. legal entity was dissolved, therefore the corresponding valuation allowance and deferred tax assets were written off. (b) During 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , we received actual and deemed distributions of $1.4 billion , $12.6 million and $12.3 million , respectively, from various foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures, and realized an expense, net of foreign tax credits, of $350.2 million , $2.8 million and $2.4 million , respectively, related to the repatriation of these earnings, which impacted our effective tax rate. 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. This gave us a rate benefit of 7.1% , 12.4% , and 4.5% for 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. (c) During 2014, we released various tax reserves primarily related to the expiration of the applicable U.S. federal statute of limitations for 2009 through 2010 which provided a net benefit of approximately $2.5 million . In 2015, the main impact is from the release of reserves on the close of a U.S. federal audit, and lapse of statute of limitations. These releases provided a net benefit of approximately $41 million . (d) In prior years, we designated the undistributed earnings of substantially all of our foreign subsidiaries as indefinitely invested. In 2015, we were not indefinitely invested in a portion of earnings from legacy Rockwood entities that were part of the repatriation planning, for which a deferred tax liability of $387.0 million was established in the opening balance sheet. This liability reversed upon the completion of the repatriation with $356.2 million impacting earnings and $30.8 million from foreign exchange differences. The reversal of this liability offsets the tax amount of $327.9 million from legacy Rockwood entities included in the deemed repatriation of foreign income. As described in Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” in the fourth quarter of 2015 we early adopted on a prospective basis new accounting guidance that requires deferred tax assets and liabilities to be classified as noncurrent on the consolidated balance sheet. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities recorded on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Accrued employee benefits $ 28,167 $ 20,834 Accrued expenses 33,048 2,379 Operating loss carryovers 131,985 82,017 Pensions 111,059 79,113 Intangibles — 5,732 Tax credit carryovers 2,555 34,469 Other 32,725 20,227 Gross deferred tax assets 339,539 244,771 Valuation allowance (85,370 ) (30,768 ) Deferred tax assets 254,169 214,003 Deferred tax liabilities: Depreciation (378,669 ) (190,280 ) Intangibles (488,855 ) — Foreign currency translation adjustments — (4,752 ) Other (46,937 ) (18,420 ) Deferred tax liabilities (914,461 ) (213,452 ) Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets $ (660,292 ) $ 551 Classification in the consolidated balance sheets: Current deferred tax assets $ — $ 1,801 Current deferred tax liabilities — (6,806 ) Noncurrent deferred tax assets 76,025 62,440 Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities (736,317 ) (56,884 ) Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets $ (660,292 ) $ 551 Changes in the balance of our deferred tax asset valuation allowance are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Balance at January 1 $ (30,768 ) $ (33,757 ) $ (49,562 ) Additions (a) (61,122 ) (1,895 ) (4,359 ) Deductions 6,520 4,884 20,164 Balance at December 31 $ (85,370 ) $ (30,768 ) $ (33,757 ) (a) Additions for the year ended December 31, 2015 includes $42.0 million related to the acquisition of Rockwood. At December 31, 2015 , we had approximately $3.0 million of domestic credits available to offset future payments of income taxes, expiring in varying amounts between 2021 and 2035 . We have established valuation allowances for $0.3 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, 2015 , we have on a pre-tax basis, domestic state net operating losses of $529.9 million , expiring between 2019 and 2036, which have pre-tax valuation allowances of $507.9 million established, and domestic capital losses comprised of federal amounts of $16.9 million and state amounts of $55.6 million expiring between 2017 and 2020, which have pre-tax valuation allowances of $15.8 million and $55.6 million established, respectively. In addition, we have on a pre-tax basis $393.6 million of foreign net operating losses of which a majority have an indefinite life, which have pre-tax valuation allowances for $177.5 million established. We have established valuation allowances for these deferred tax assets 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 $0.9 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, 2015 , we have not recorded U.S. income taxes on approximately $1.1 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. If it is determined that cash can be repatriated with little to no tax consequences, we may choose to repatriate cash at that time. If in the foreseeable future we can no longer demonstrate that these earnings are indefinitely invested, a deferred tax liability will be recognized. 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 $101.7 million and $25.3 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, inclusive of interest and penalties of $6.5 million and $0.3 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, and are reported in Other noncurrent liabilities as provided in Note 16. These liabilities at December 31, 2015 and 2014 were reduced by $50.9 million and $22.1 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 11. The resulting net liabilities of $44.0 million and $2.9 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively, if recognized and released, would favorably affect earnings. The liabilities related to uncertain tax positions, exclusive of interest, were $95.7 million and $25.0 million at December 31, 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The following is a reconciliation of our total gross liability related to uncertain tax positions for 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Balance at January 1 $ 24,969 $ 29,143 $ 28,398 Acquisition of Rockwood 124,758 — — Additions for tax positions related to prior years 4,329 — — Reductions for tax positions related to prior years (46,211 ) (214 ) (348 ) Additions for tax positions related to current year 202 2,232 2,061 Lapses in statutes of limitations/settlements (6,736 ) (5,057 ) (473 ) Foreign currency translation adjustment (5,596 ) (1,135 ) (495 ) Balance at December 31 $ 95,715 $ 24,969 $ 29,143 We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and numerous foreign jurisdictions. Due to the statute of limitations, we are no longer subject to U.S. federal income tax audits by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) for years prior to 2011. In 2015, the IRS continued its audit of legacy Albemarle’s U.S. consolidated group for 2011 and 2012. Additionally, in 2015 the IRS finalized its audit of legacy Rockwood’s U.S. consolidated group for 2010 and 2011. Due to the statute of limitations, we also are no longer subject to U.S. state income tax audits prior to 2010. With respect to jurisdictions outside the U.S., several audits are in process. During 2015, the German tax authorities continued and announced audits on multiple German subsidiaries for various years from 2006 through 2013, the Belgium tax authorities continued the audit of our Belgium subsidiary for 2012 and 2013, and audits of two of our Korean entities for 2011 through 2013 were closed. We also have various audits ongoing for the years 2007 through 2014 related to Russia, the Philippines, India, Italy, and France. 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 $3.3 million as a result of closure of tax statutes.

Restructuring and Other

Restructuring and Other	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring and Other	Restructuring and Other: Restructuring and other, net, reported in the consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 consists of the following (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business (a) $ (6,804 ) $ — $ — Charges in connection with aluminum alkyl supply capacity reduction (b) — 23,521 — Charges in connection with global business realignment (c) — — 33,361 Other, net (d) — 2,426 — Total Restructuring and other, net $ (6,804 ) $ 25,947 $ 33,361 (a) In the third quarter of 2015, a gain of $6.8 million ( $5.4 million after income taxes) was recognized upon the sale of land in Avonmouth, U.K., which was utilized by the phosphorus flame retardants business we exited in 2012. In 2012, charges in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business were recorded in Restructuring and other, net, on our consolidated statements of income. (b) In 2014, we initiated action to reduce high cost supply capacity of certain aluminum alkyl products, primarily through the termination of a third party manufacturing contract. Based on the contract termination, we estimated costs of approximately $14.0 million ( $9.3 million after income taxes) in the first quarter and $6.5 million ( $4.3 million after income taxes) in the fourth quarter for contract termination and volume commitments. Additionally, in the first quarter of 2014 we recorded an impairment charge of $3.0 million ( $1.9 million after income taxes) for certain capital project costs also related to aluminum alkyls capacity which we do not expect to recover. (c) In connection with an announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014, in the fourth quarter of 2013 we initiated a workforce reduction plan which resulted 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 complete. (d) The amount for 2014 mainly consists of $3.3 million ( $2.1 million after income taxes) recorded in the second quarter for certain multi-product facility project costs that we do not expect to recover in future periods, net of other credits recorded in the fourth quarter.

Fair Value of Financial Instrum

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 2014 Recorded Amount Fair Value Recorded Amount Fair Value (In thousands) Long-term debt $ 3,852,019 $ 3,810,981 $ 2,934,131 $ 2,994,935 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, 2015 and 2014 , we had outstanding foreign currency forward contracts with notional values totaling $217.7 million and $479.9 million , respectively. Our foreign currency forward contracts outstanding at December 31, 2015 and 2014 have not been designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging . At December 31, 2015 , $0.3 million was included in Accrued expenses associated with the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts, and at December 31, 2014 , $0.6 million was included in Other accounts receivable associated with the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts. Gains and losses on foreign currency forward contracts are recognized currently in Other income (expenses), 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, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 we recognized losses of ($38.5) million , ($17.8) million and ($1.1) million , respectively, in Other income (expenses), 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 income (expenses), net. Also, for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , we recorded $38.5 million , $17.8 million and $1.1 million , respectively, related to the change in the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts, and net cash settlements of ($37.6) million , ($18.3) million and ($1.8) million , respectively, in Other, net, in our consolidated statements of cash flows. The counterparties to our foreign currency forward contracts 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.

Fair Value Measurement

Fair Value Measurement	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 . 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, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Assets: Investments under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 21,631 $ 21,631 $ — $ — Private equity securities (b) $ 2,626 $ 31 $ — $ 2,595 Pension assets (c) $ 690,787 $ 500,996 $ 106,664 $ 83,127 Postretirement assets (c) $ 3,292 $ — $ 3,292 $ — Liabilities: Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 21,631 $ 21,631 $ — $ — Foreign currency forward contracts (d) $ 250 $ — $ 250 $ — December 31, 2014 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Assets: Investments under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 22,168 $ 22,168 $ — $ — Private equity securities (b) $ 1,806 $ 21 $ — $ 1,785 Foreign currency forward contracts (d) $ 631 $ — $ 631 $ — Pension assets (c) $ 607,694 $ 513,871 $ 13,083 $ 80,740 Postretirement assets (c) $ 4,439 $ — $ 4,439 $ — Liabilities: Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 22,168 $ 22,168 $ — $ — (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 income (expenses), net, in our consolidated statements of 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) See Note 15 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets, including the reconciliations of the plans’ Level 3 assets. (d) 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 foreign currency forward contracts. Unless otherwise noted, these derivative financial instruments are not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging . 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. The following table presents the fair value reconciliation of private equity securities Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the periods indicated (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 Beginning balance $ 1,785 $ 750 Total unrealized gains included in earnings relating to assets still held at the reporting date 810 35 Purchases — 1,000 Ending balance $ 2,595 $ 1,785

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]	Related Party Transactions: Our consolidated financial statements include sales to and purchases from unconsolidated affiliates in the ordinary course of business as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Sales to unconsolidated affiliates $ 25,903 $ 45,415 $ 29,420 Purchases from unconsolidated affiliates 115,697 64,631 57,022

Segment and Geographic Area Inf

Segment and Geographic Area Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment and Geographic Area Information	Segment and Geographic Area Information: As a result of the Rockwood acquisition, in 2015 we realigned our organizational structure under three reportable segments: Performance Chemicals, Refining Solutions and Chemetall Surface Treatment. 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 business structure aligns with the markets and customers we serve through each of the segments. The new structure also facilitates the continued standardization of business processes across the organization, and 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. Summarized financial information concerning our reportable segments is shown in the following tables. Results for 2014 and 2013 have been recast to reflect the change in segments noted above and a change in our measure of segment profit or loss to adjusted EBITDA as discussed below. Segment results for all periods presented exclude discontinued operations as further described in Note 3, “Divestitures.” The “All Other” category is comprised of three operating segments that did not fit into any of our core businesses subsequent to the acquisition of Rockwood: mineral-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals, fine chemistry services and metal sulfides. For additional information about these businesses, see Note 3, “Divestitures.” The Corporate category is not considered to be a segment and 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 the reportable segments, All Other, and Corporate, whereas the remaining components of pension and OPEB benefits cost or credit (“Non-operating pension and OPEB items”) are included in Corporate. Segment data includes intersegment transfers of raw materials at cost and allocations for certain corporate costs. Beginning in 2015, the Company uses earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, as adjusted for certain non-recurring or unusual items such as restructuring charges, facility divestiture charges, non-operating pension and OPEB items and other significant non-recurring items (“adjusted EBITDA”), on a segment basis to assess the ongoing performance of the Company’s business segments. Adjusted EBITDA is a financial measure that is not required by, or presented in accordance with, U.S. GAAP. The Company has reported adjusted EBITDA because management believes it provides transparency to investors and enables period-to-period comparability of financial performance. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Net sales: Performance Chemicals $ 1,610,319 $ 1,121,645 $ 1,141,890 Refining Solutions 729,261 852,139 775,207 Chemetall Surface Treatment 824,906 — — All Other 471,434 471,764 477,173 Corporate 15,415 — — Total net sales $ 3,651,335 $ 2,445,548 $ 2,394,270 Adjusted EBITDA: Performance Chemicals $ 535,520 $ 306,572 $ 364,712 Refining Solutions 197,595 256,485 190,388 Chemetall Surface Treatment 202,028 — — All Other 53,993 73,973 71,691 Corporate (29,814 ) (74,875 ) (69,240 ) Total adjusted EBITDA $ 959,322 $ 562,155 $ 557,551 See below for a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA, the non-GAAP financial measure, to Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP, (in thousands): Performance Chemicals Refining Solutions Chemetall Surface Treatment Reportable Segments Total All Other Corporate Consolidated Total 2015 Adjusted EBITDA $ 535,520 $ 197,595 $ 202,028 $ 935,143 $ 53,993 $ (29,814 ) $ 959,322 Depreciation and amortization (120,248 ) (34,039 ) (78,903 ) (233,190 ) (18,183 ) (8,703 ) (260,076 ) Utilization of inventory markup (a) (79,977 ) — (20,030 ) (100,007 ) (3,029 ) — (103,036 ) Restructuring and other, net (c) — — — — — 6,804 6,804 Acquisition and integration related costs (b) — — — — — (146,096 ) (146,096 ) Interest and financing expenses — — — — — (132,722 ) (132,722 ) Income tax expense — — — — — (29,122 ) (29,122 ) Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — 46,244 46,244 Other (d) — (1,971 ) — (1,971 ) — (4,441 ) (6,412 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 335,295 $ 161,585 $ 103,095 $ 599,975 $ 32,781 $ (297,850 ) $ 334,906 2014 Adjusted EBITDA $ 306,572 $ 256,485 $ — $ 563,057 $ 73,973 $ (74,875 ) $ 562,155 Depreciation and amortization (e) (51,707 ) (32,670 ) — (84,377 ) (13,478 ) (2,552 ) (100,407 ) Restructuring and other, net (c) — — — — — (25,947 ) (25,947 ) Acquisition and integration related costs (b) — — — — — (30,158 ) (30,158 ) Interest and financing expenses — — — — — (41,358 ) (41,358 ) Income tax expense — — — — — (18,484 ) (18,484 ) (Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax) — — — — — (69,531 ) (69,531 ) Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — (125,462 ) (125,462 ) Other (d) — — — — — (17,492 ) (17,492 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 254,865 $ 223,815 $ — $ 478,680 $ 60,495 $ (405,859 ) $ 133,316 2013 Adjusted EBITDA $ 364,712 $ 190,388 $ — $ 555,100 $ 71,691 $ (69,240 ) $ 557,551 Depreciation and amortization (e) (46,225 ) (33,580 ) — (79,805 ) (13,323 ) (2,188 ) (95,316 ) Restructuring and other, net (c) — — — — — (33,361 ) (33,361 ) Interest and financing expenses — — — — — (31,559 ) (31,559 ) Income tax expense — — — — — (134,445 ) (134,445 ) (Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax) — — — — — 4,108 4,108 Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — 146,193 146,193 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 318,487 $ 156,808 $ — $ 475,295 $ 58,368 $ (120,492 ) $ 413,171 (a) In connection with the acquisition of Rockwood, the Company valued Rockwood’s existing inventory at fair value as of the Acquisition Closing Date, which resulted in a markup of the underlying net book value of the inventory totaling approximately $103 million . The inventory markup was expensed over the estimated remaining selling period. For the year ended December 31, 2015 , $75.9 million was included in Cost of goods sold, and Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments was reduced by $ 27.1 million related to the utilization of the inventory markup. (b) See Note 2, “Acquisitions.” (c) See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.” (d) For the year ended December 31, 2015, Refining Solutions includes an impairment charge of approximately $2.0 million related to our unconsolidated investment in Fábrica Carioca de Catalisadores SA. For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, Corporate includes approximately $4.4 million and $17.5 million , respectively, of financing-related fees expensed in connection with the acquisition of Rockwood. (e) Excludes discontinued operations. As of December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Identifiable assets: Performance Chemicals $ 4,358,598 $ 1,085,246 $ 1,148,478 Refining Solutions 937,445 1,100,361 1,217,313 Chemetall Surface Treatment 3,207,621 — — All Other 517,695 268,555 468,147 Corporate (a) 593,655 2,768,941 750,859 Total identifiable assets $ 9,615,014 $ 5,223,103 $ 3,584,797 Goodwill: Performance Chemicals $ 1,287,824 $ 42,016 $ 42,025 Refining Solutions 172,728 192,657 218,382 Chemetall Surface Treatment 1,433,259 — — All Other — 8,589 23,796 Total goodwill $ 2,893,811 $ 243,262 $ 284,203 (a) As of December 31, 2014, Corporate included net proceeds received from the issuance of the 2014 Senior Notes, which, together with borrowings from our Commercial Paper Notes, August 2014 Term Loan Agreement and Cash Bridge Facility, were used to finance the cash portion of the Merger Consideration, pay related fees and expenses and repay our senior notes which matured on February 1, 2015. See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” and Note 2, “Acquisitions” for additional details about these transactions. Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Depreciation and amortization: Performance Chemicals $ 120,248 $ 51,707 $ 46,225 Refining Solutions 34,039 32,670 33,580 Chemetall Surface Treatment 78,903 — — Discontinued Operations — 3,165 12,054 All Other 18,183 13,478 13,323 Corporate 8,703 2,552 2,188 Total depreciation and amortization $ 260,076 $ 103,572 $ 107,370 Capital expenditures: Performance Chemicals $ 159,338 $ 52,280 $ 119,500 Refining Solutions 28,836 49,219 16,501 Chemetall Surface Treatment 23,738 — — All Other 13,054 9,053 18,831 Corporate 2,683 24 514 Total capital expenditures $ 227,649 $ 110,576 $ 155,346 Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Net Sales: United States $ 1,118,847 $ 884,373 $ 933,182 Foreign (a) 2,532,488 1,561,175 1,461,088 Total $ 3,651,335 $ 2,445,548 $ 2,394,270 (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, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Long-Lived Assets: United States $ 833,238 $ 698,863 $ 748,719 Chile 916,965 — — Netherlands 157,644 167,965 193,775 Jordan 230,460 227,805 227,818 Australia 282,552 — — Brazil 45,847 59,474 78,078 Germany 189,895 75,813 86,175 China 29,780 5,310 41,858 France 50,991 37,347 34,523 Korea 72,685 80,362 86,827 United Kingdom 5,320 3,665 3,665 Other foreign countries 103,977 48,819 47,139 Total $ 2,919,354 $ 1,405,423 $ 1,548,577 Net sales to external customers by product category in each of the segments consists of the following: Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Performance Chemicals: Bromine $ 775,729 $ 808,857 $ 856,298 Lithium 508,844 — — Performance Catalyst Solutions 325,746 312,788 285,592 Total Performance Chemicals $ 1,610,319 $ 1,121,645 $ 1,141,890 Refining Solutions $ 729,261 $ 852,139 $ 775,207 Chemetall Surface Treatment $ 824,906 $ — $ — On October 26, 2015, we announced that effective January 1, 2016, Performance Chemicals will be split into two separate reportable segments: (1) Bromine Specialties, and (2) Lithium and Advanced Materials, which will include Performance Catalyst Solutions and Curatives.

Quarterly Financial Summary (Un

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited)	Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited): First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 Net sales $ 884,404 $ 931,485 $ 905,093 $ 930,353 Gross profit $ 258,466 $ 300,566 $ 312,210 $ 325,630 Restructuring and other, net (a) $ — $ — $ (6,804 ) $ — Acquisition and integration related costs (b) $ 59,523 $ 24,166 $ 42,798 $ 19,609 Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation (c) $ 43,115 $ 52,147 $ 65,392 $ 174,252 Basic earnings per share (c) $ 0.40 $ 0.46 $ 0.58 $ 1.55 Shares used to compute basic earnings per share 108,130 112,189 112,202 112,207 Diluted earnings per share (c) $ 0.40 $ 0.46 $ 0.58 $ 1.55 Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share 108,464 112,607 112,544 112,608 First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2014 Net sales $ 599,843 $ 604,721 $ 642,418 $ 598,566 Gross profit $ 195,599 $ 207,363 $ 205,446 $ 162,440 Restructuring and other, net (a) $ 17,000 $ 3,332 $ 293 $ 5,322 Acquisition and integration related costs (b) $ — $ 4,843 $ 10,261 $ 15,054 Net income (loss) from continuing operations $ 66,004 $ 89,404 $ 88,019 $ (12,990 ) Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) (d) (1,769 ) (60,025 ) (6,679 ) (1,058 ) Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (7,652 ) (6,932 ) (8,546 ) (4,460 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 56,583 $ 22,447 $ 72,794 $ (18,508 ) Basic earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 0.73 $ 1.05 $ 1.02 $ (0.22 ) Discontinued operations (0.02 ) (0.76 ) (0.09 ) (0.02 ) $ 0.71 $ 0.29 $ 0.93 $ (0.24 ) Shares used to compute basic earnings per share 79,735 78,662 78,244 78,144 Diluted earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 0.73 $ 1.04 $ 1.01 $ (0.22 ) Discontinued operations (0.02 ) (0.76 ) (0.08 ) (0.02 ) $ 0.71 $ 0.28 $ 0.93 $ (0.24 ) Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share 80,112 79,091 78,659 78,545 (a) See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.” (b) See Note 2, “Acquisitions.” (c) The fourth quarter of 2015 includes an income tax benefit of $44.6 million primarily related to the release of certain tax reserves associated with lapses in statutes of limitations and audit closures. (d) Included in Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2014 is ($65.7) million related to the loss on the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets, the majority of which was recorded in the second quarter. See Note 3, “Divestitures.” As discussed in Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” actuarial gains and losses related to our defined benefit pension and OPEB plan obligations 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. During the year ended December 31, 2015, actuarial gains were recognized as follows: fourth quarter— $38.9 million ( $27.8 million after income taxes) as a result of the annual remeasurement process. During the year ended December 31, 2014, actuarial losses were recognized as follows: first quarter— $15.4 million ( $9.8 million after income taxes) as a result of the remeasurement of the assets and obligations of (i) one of our U.S. defined benefit plan which covers non-represented employees, and (ii) our SERP, in connection with a realignment of of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014 and related workforce reduction plan; third quarter— $2.8 million ( $1.8 million after income taxes) as a result of the remeasurement of the assets and obligations of one of our U.S. defined benefit plans for represented employees which was part of the businesses and assets we divested on September 1, 2014; fourth quarter— $112.6 million ( $71.8 million after income taxes) as a result of the annual remeasurement process.

Summary of Significant Accoun34

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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. As described further in Note 2, “Acquisitions,” we completed our acquisition of Rockwood Holdings, Inc. (“Rockwood”) on January 12, 2015. The consolidated financial statements contained herein include the results of operations of Rockwood, commencing on January 13, 2015. Organizational Realignment As a result of the Rockwood acquisition, in 2015 we realigned our organizational structure under three reportable segments: Performance Chemicals, Refining Solutions and Chemetall Surface Treatment. Throughout this document, including these consolidated financial statements and related footnotes, current and prior year financial information is presented in accordance with this structure.
Discontinued Operations	Discontinued Operations Effective January 1, 2015, a component or group of components that is classified as held for sale or that has been disposed of by sale, and which represents a strategic shift that has or will have a major effect on our operations and financial results, is reported as discontinued operations beginning in the period when these criteria are met. Our assets and liabilities held for sale at December 31, 2015 did not meet the criteria to be presented as discontinued operations. On September 1, 2014, the Company closed the sale of its antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets to SI Group, Inc. In accordance with the accounting guidance for discontinued operations in effect prior to January 1, 2015, the financial results of this disposed group were presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income and excluded from segment results for 2014 and 2013. See Note 3, “Divestitures” for additional information.
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 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. 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, and are generally not significant.
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. We assign the useful lives of our property, plant and equipment based upon our internal engineering estimates which are reviewed periodically. The estimated useful lives of our property, plant and equipment range from two to sixty years and depreciation is recorded on the straight-line method, with the exception of our long-term mineral rights, which are depleted on a units-of-production method. We evaluate the recovery of our property, plant and equipment by comparing the net carrying value of the asset group to the undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated from the use and eventual disposition of that asset group when events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the carrying amount of the asset group is not recoverable, the fair value of the asset group is measured and if the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, an impairment loss is recognized.
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. 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. If the amount and timing of the cash payments for a site are fixed or reliably determinable, the liability is discounted. 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, 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 about sales volumes, selling prices, raw material prices, labor and other employee benefit costs, capital additions, income taxes, working capital, 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 perform a sensitivity analysis by using a range of inputs to confirm the reasonableness of these estimates being used in the goodwill impairment analysis. 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 the Company and, therefore, are beyond our control. We test our recorded goodwill 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, 2015 and concluded there was no impairment as of that date. In addition, no indications of impairment in any of our reporting units were indicated by the sensitivity analysis. We assess our indefinite-lived intangible assets, which include trade names and in-progress research and development, for impairment annually and between annual tests if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired. The indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment standard allows us to first to assess qualitative factors to determine if a quantitative impairment test is necessary. Further testing is only required if we determine, based on the qualitative assessment, that it is more likely than not that the indefinite-lived intangible asset’s fair value is less than its carrying amount. If we determine based on the qualitative assessment that it is more likely than not that the asset is impaired, an impairment test is performed by comparing the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset to its carrying amount. 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 twenty-five years . Except for customer lists and relationships associated with our Lithium business and Chemetall Surface Treatment segment, which are amortized using the pattern of economic benefit method, definite-lived intangible assets are amortized using the straight-line method. We evaluate the recovery of our definite-lived intangible assets by comparing the net carrying value of the asset group to the undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated from the use and eventual disposition of that asset group when events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the carrying amount of the asset group is not recoverable, the fair value of the asset group is measured and if the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, an impairment loss is recognized. See Note 12, “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 our 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. • Mortality Assumptions—Assumptions about life expectancy of plan participants are used in the measurement of related plan obligations. 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 2015 , we made changes to assumptions related to discount rates and expected rates of return on plan assets. 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 2015 , 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, 2015 measurement date. In selecting the discount rates for the foreign plans, we look at long-term yields on AA-rated corporate bonds when available. Our actuaries have developed yield curves based on the yields on the constituent bonds in the various indices as well as on other market indicators such as swap rates, particularly at the longer durations. For the Eurozone, we apply the Aon Hewitt yield curve to projected cash flows from the relevant plans to derive the discount rate. For the UK, the discount rate is determined by applying the Aon Hewitt yield curve for typical schemes of similar duration to projected cash flows of Albemarle’s UK plan. In other countries where there is not a sufficiently deep market of high-quality corporate bonds, we set the discount rate by referencing the yield on government bonds of an appropriate duration. 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. In October 2014, the Society of Actuaries (“SOA”) published updated mortality tables which reflect increased life expectancy. We revised our mortality assumptions to incorporate the new set of mortality tables issued by the SOA for purposes of measuring our U.S. pension and OPEB obligations at December 31, 2014.
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. Additionally, the Company sponsors various defined contribution plans for certain employees at foreign locations, the most significant of which is 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 statements 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 with a service condition are determined based on the number of shares or units granted and the quoted price of our common stock on the date of grant, and the fair value of stock options is determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value of performance unit awards with a service condition and a market condition are estimated on the date of grant using a Monte Carlo simulation 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. In order to record deferred tax assets and liabilities, we are following guidance under ASU 2015-17, which requires deferred tax assets and liabilities to be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet, along with any related valuation allowance. 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. Under current accounting guidance for uncertain tax positions, interest and penalties related to income tax liabilities are included in Income tax expense on the consolidated statements of income. 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. If it is determined that cash can be repatriated with little to no tax consequences, we may choose to repatriate cash at that time. 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 (Loss) Income	Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income is comprised principally of foreign currency translation adjustments, amounts related to the revaluation of our euro-denominated senior notes which were designated as a hedge of our net investment in foreign operations in 2014, a realized loss on a forward starting interest rate swap entered into in 2014 which was designated as a cash flow hedge, and deferred income taxes related to the aforementioned items.
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. Foreign exchange transaction gains (losses) were $51.8 million , ($3.7) million and ($10.6) million for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , respectively, and are included in Other income (expenses), net, in our consolidated statements of income
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 impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates. While these contracts are subject to fluctuations in value, such fluctuations are generally expected to be offset by changes in the value of the underlying foreign currency exposures being hedged. Unless otherwise noted, gains and losses on foreign currency forward contracts are recognized currently in Other income (expenses), net, and generally do not have a significant impact on results of operations. We may also enter into interest rate swaps, collars or similar instruments from time to time, with the objective of reducing interest rate volatility relating to our borrowing costs. 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. Our foreign currency forward contracts outstanding at December 31, 2015 and 2014 have not been designated as hedging instruments under Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 815, Derivatives and Hedging .
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued accounting guidance that changed the criteria for reporting discontinued operations and modified related disclosure requirements to provide users of financial statements with more information about the assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of discontinued operations. The guidance modified the definition of discontinued operations by limiting its scope to disposals of components of an entity that represent strategic shifts that have (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. Additionally, these new requirements require entities to disclose the pretax profit or loss related to disposals of significant components that do not qualify as discontinued operations. These new requirements became effective on January 1, 2015. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures” for additional information. In May 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance designed to enhance comparability of revenue recognition practices across entities, industries, jurisdictions and capital markets. The core principle of the guidance is that revenue recognized from a transaction or event that arises from a contract with a customer should reflect the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for goods or services provided. To achieve that core principle the new guidance sets forth a five-step revenue recognition model that will need to be applied consistently to all contracts with customers, except those that are within the scope of other topics in the ASC. Also required are new disclosures to help users of financial statements better understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenues and cash flows from contracts with customers. The new disclosures include qualitative and quantitative information about contracts with customers, significant judgments made in applying the revenue guidance, and assets recognized related to the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. These new requirements become effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We are assessing the impact of these new requirements on our financial statements. In June 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance which clarifies the proper method of accounting for share-based payments when the terms of an award provide that a performance target could be achieved after the requisite service period. The accounting guidance requires that a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition. The performance target should not be reflected in estimating the grant-date fair value of the award. Compensation cost should be recognized in the period in which it becomes probable that the performance target will be achieved and should represent the compensation cost attributable to the period(s) for which the requisite service has already been rendered. These new requirements become effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, and early adoption is permitted. We do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on our financial statements. In February 2015, the FASB issued accounting guidance that changes the analysis that reporting entities must perform to determine whether certain types of legal entities should be consolidated. Specifically, the amendments affect (a) limited partnerships and similar legal entities; (b) the consolidation analysis of reporting entities that are involved with variable interest entities, particularly those that have fee arrangements and related party relationships; and (c) certain investment funds. These amendments are effective for fiscal years, and for interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. We are assessing the impact of these amendments on our financial statements, however we do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on our financial statements. In April and August 2015, the FASB issued accounting guidance that changes the balance sheet presentation of debt issuance costs (except for debt issuance costs related to line-of-credit arrangements). The guidance requires debt issuance costs relating to a recognized debt liability to be presented as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the associated debt liability in the balance sheet. This new requirement will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years, and is to be applied on a retrospective basis. We do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on our financial statements. In April 2015, the FASB issued accounting guidance that, among other things, provides for a practical expedient related to interim period remeasurements of defined benefit plan assets and obligations. The practical expedient permits entities to remeasure plan assets and obligations using the month-end that is closest to the date of the actual event. Disclosure of such election and related month-end remeasurement date is required. This guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years, and is to be applied prospectively. Early application is permitted. We do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on our financial statements. In April 2015, the FASB issued accounting guidance which clarifies the proper method of accounting for fees paid in a cloud computing arrangement. The guidance requires software licenses included in a cloud computing arrangement to be accounted for consistently with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, the arrangement should be accounted for as a service contract. This new requirement will be effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on our financial statements. In May 2015, the FASB issued accounting guidance for which investments measured at net asset value per share (or its equivalent) using the practical expedient should no longer be categorized within the fair value hierarchy. Although removed from the fair value hierarchy, disclosure of the nature, risks and amount of investments for which fair value is measured using the practical expedient is still required. This guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years, and is to be applied on a retrospective basis. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on our financial statements. In July 2015, the FASB issued accounting guidance that requires inventory to be measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value. The scope of this guidance excludes inventory measured using the last-in first-out method or the retail inventory method. This new requirement will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years, and is to be applied prospectively. Early application is permitted. We are assessing the impact of this new requirement on our financial statements. In September 2015, the FASB issued accounting guidance that eliminates the requirement to retrospectively adjust prior period financial statements for measurement-period adjustments that occur in periods after a business combination is consummated. Measurement-period adjustments should continue to be calculated as if they were known at the acquisition date, but will now be recognized in the reporting period in which they are determined. The new guidance also requires that the acquirer present separately on the face of the income statement or disclose in the notes the amount recorded in current-period earnings, by line item, that would have been recorded in previous reporting periods if the adjustment to provisional amounts had been recognized as of the acquisition date. As allowed by the provisions of this new guidance, we early-adopted this new guidance in the third quarter of 2015. Refer to Note 2, “Acquisitions” for additional information about the adoption of these new requirements. In November 2015, the FASB issued accounting guidance that changes the balance sheet classification of deferred tax assets and liabilities. The guidance requires deferred tax assets and liabilities to be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet, along with any related valuation allowance. As allowed by the provisions of this new guidance, we early-adopted this new guidance in the fourth quarter of 2015 on a prospective basis. Accordingly, deferred tax asset and liability amounts as of December 31, 2014 were not retrospectively adjusted. In February 2016, the FASB issued accounting guidance that requires assets and liabilities arising from leases to be recorded on the balance sheet. Additional disclosures are required regarding the amount, timing, and uncertainty of cash flows from leases. This new guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years, and is to be applied using a modified retrospective approach. Early application is permitted. We have not evaluated the impact of the updated guidance on our consolidated financial statements.

Acquisitions (Tables)

Acquisitions (Tables) - Rockwood Holdings, Inc.	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block]	The following table summarizes the consideration paid for Rockwood and the amounts of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date, which have been allocated on a preliminary basis (in thousands): Total purchase price $ 5,725,321 Net assets acquired: Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,555,139 Trade and other accounts receivable 262,947 Inventories 290,326 Other current assets 86,267 Property, plant and equipment 1,377,249 Investments 529,453 Other assets 25,538 Definite-lived intangible assets: Patents and technology 227,840 Trade names and trademarks 258,740 Customer lists and relationships 1,264,227 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trade names and trademarks 104,380 Other 26,410 Current liabilities (406,513 ) Long-term debt (1,319,132 ) Pension benefits (316,086 ) Other noncurrent liabilities (195,052 ) Deferred income taxes (845,965 ) Noncontrolling interests (17,582 ) Total identifiable net assets 2,908,186 Goodwill 2,817,135 Total net assets acquired $ 5,725,321
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]	The following unaudited pro forma results of operations of the Company for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 assume that the Merger occurred on January 1, 2014. The pro forma amounts include certain adjustments, including interest expense, depreciation, amortization expense and income taxes. The pro forma amounts for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 were adjusted to exclude approximately $137.7 million and $23.6 million , respectively, of nonrecurring acquisition and integration related costs. Additionally, pro forma amounts for the year ended December 31, 2015 were adjusted to exclude approximately $103.0 million of charges related to the utilization of the inventory markup as further described in Note 25, “Segment and Geographic Area Information.” The 2014 pro forma results do not include adjustments related to cost savings or other synergies that are anticipated as a result of the Merger. Accordingly, these unaudited pro forma results are presented for informational purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of what the actual results of operations of the combined company would have been if the acquisition had occurred as of January 1, 2014, nor are they indicative of future results of operations. Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 (in thousands, except per share amounts) Pro forma Net sales $ 3,684,665 $ 3,870,428 Pro forma Net income from continuing operations $ 527,997 $ 353,313 Pro forma Net income from continuing operations per share: Basic $ 4.75 $ 3.13 Diluted $ 4.73 $ 3.12

Divestitures (Tables)

Divestitures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures	A summary of results of discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 is as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2014 2013 Net sales $ 154,273 $ 222,146 (Loss) income from discontinued operations $ (90,439 ) $ 5,985 Income tax (benefit) expense (20,908 ) 1,877 (Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax) $ (69,531 ) $ 4,108 The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities that were classified as held for sale at December 31, 2015, are as follows (in thousands): Assets Current assets $ 156,421 Net property, plant and equipment 115,865 Goodwill 46,794 Other intangibles, net of amortization 66,324 All other noncurrent assets 19,081 Assets held for sale $ 404,485 Liabilities Current liabilities $ 72,756 Deferred income taxes 24,947 All other noncurrent liabilities 31,003 Liabilities held for sale $ 128,706

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform37

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 2014 2013 Cash paid during the year for: Income taxes (net of refunds of $7,333, $6,035 and $14,296 in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively) (a) $ 162,408 $ 56,174 $ 51,772 Interest (net of capitalization) $ 153,271 $ 33,604 $ 29,629 Supplemental non-cash disclosures related to investing activities: Capital expenditures included in Accounts payable $ 45,826 $ 20,373 $ 13,741 (a) Cash paid for income taxes during 2015 includes approximately $111 million of taxes paid on repatriation of earnings from legacy Rockwood entities.

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 2014 2013 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations Numerator: Net income from continuing operations $ 360,064 $ 230,437 $ 435,726 Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (25,158 ) (27,590 ) (26,663 ) Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 334,906 $ 202,847 $ 409,063 Denominator: Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share 111,182 78,696 83,839 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations $ 3.01 $ 2.57 $ 4.88 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations Numerator: Net income from continuing operations $ 360,064 $ 230,437 $ 435,726 Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (25,158 ) (27,590 ) (26,663 ) Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 334,906 $ 202,847 $ 409,063 Denominator: Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share 111,182 78,696 83,839 Incremental shares under stock compensation plans 374 406 483 Weighted-average common shares for diluted earnings per share 111,556 79,102 84,322 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations $ 3.00 $ 2.57 $ 4.85

Other Accounts Receivable (Tabl

Other Accounts Receivable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Other Accounts Receivable	Other accounts receivable consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Value added tax/consumption tax $ 24,316 $ 23,205 Other 55,561 26,218 Total $ 79,877 $ 49,423

Inventories (Tables)

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Breakdown of Inventories	The following table provides a breakdown of inventories at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Finished goods $ 308,462 $ 262,769 Raw materials and work in process (a) 144,886 53,152 Stores, supplies and other 55,380 42,440 Total inventories $ 508,728 $ 358,361 (a) Balance at December 31, 2015 includes $39.1 million of work in process related to the Lithium product category.

Other Current Assets (Tables)

Other Current Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Assets [Abstract]
Other Current Assets	Other current assets consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Deferred income taxes—current (a) $ — $ 1,801 Income tax receivables 23,740 22,837 Prepaid expenses 43,280 41,448 Other 4,331 — Total $ 71,351 $ 66,086 (a) See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.”

Property, Plant and Equipment (

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment, at Cost	Property, plant and equipment, at cost, consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Useful Lives (Years) December 31, 2015 2014 Land (a) — $ 145,912 $ 56,249 Land improvements 5 – 30 59,423 49,099 Buildings and improvements (a) 10 – 45 297,163 214,364 Machinery and equipment (b) 2 – 45 2,305,641 2,106,451 Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs 7 – 60 652,871 85,888 Construction in progress — 420,152 108,619 Total $ 3,881,162 $ 2,620,670 (a) Includes Land under capital lease of $2.8 million and Buildings and improvements under capital lease of $9.9 million at December 31, 2015 . (b) Consists primarily of (1) short-lived production equipment components, office and building equipment and other equipment with estimated lives ranging 2 – 7 years, (2) production process equipment (intermediate components) with estimated lives ranging 8 – 19 years, (3) production process equipment (major unit components) with estimated lives ranging 20 – 29 years, and (4) production process equipment (infrastructure and other) with estimated lives ranging 30 – 45 years.

Investments (Tables)

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Investments [Abstract]
Investment Balances	The following table details our investment balances at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands). December 31, 2015 2014 Joint ventures (a) $ 430,952 $ 169,891 Nonmarketable securities 208 177 Marketable equity securities 24,257 23,974 Total $ 455,417 $ 194,042 (a) Balance at December 31, 2015 excludes our investment in Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG (“Magnifin”), which is included in Assets held for sale. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures.”
Ownership Positions in Significant Unconsolidated Investments	Our ownership positions in significant unconsolidated investments are shown below: December 31, 2015 2014 2013 * Windfield Holdings Pty Ltd - a joint venture with Sichuan Tianqi Lithium Industries, Inc., that mines lithium ore and produces lithium concentrate 49 % — % — % * Nippon Aluminum Alkyls - a joint venture with Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. that produces aluminum alkyls 50 % 50 % 50 % * Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG - a joint venture with Radex Heraklith Industriebeteiligung AG that produces specialty magnesium hydroxide products 50 % 50 % 50 % * Nippon Ketjen Company Limited - a joint venture with Sumitomo Metal Mining Company Limited that produces refinery catalysts 50 % 50 % 50 % * Eurecat S.A. - a joint venture with IFP Investissements for refinery catalysts regeneration services 50 % 50 % 50 % * Fábrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A. - a joint venture with Petrobras Quimica S.A. - PETROQUISA that produces catalysts and includes catalysts research and product development activities 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, 2015 2014 Summary of Balance Sheet Information: Current assets $ 331,630 $ 226,392 Noncurrent assets 935,790 181,343 Total assets $ 1,267,420 $ 407,735 Current liabilities $ 106,966 $ 74,242 Noncurrent liabilities 339,604 63,585 Total liabilities $ 446,570 $ 137,827 Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Summary of Statements of Income Information: Net sales $ 560,376 $ 499,394 $ 499,941 Gross profit $ 253,569 $ 164,063 $ 168,898 Income before income taxes $ 157,501 $ 101,983 $ 101,680 Net income $ 111,491 $ 71,466 $ 71,322

Other Assets (Tables)

Other Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other Assets	Other assets consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Deferred income taxes—noncurrent (a) $ 76,025 $ 62,440 Assets related to unrecognized tax benefits (a) 50,875 22,100 Long-term advances to joint ventures (b) 31,780 34,084 Deferred financing costs (c) 19,605 23,583 Other 38,713 18,749 Total $ 216,998 $ 160,956 (a) See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.” (b) See Note 10, “Investments.” (c) See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt.”

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Performance Chemicals Refining Solutions Chemetall Surface Treatment All Other Total Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 42,025 $ 218,382 $ — $ 23,796 $ 284,203 Divestitures (a) — — — (15,088 ) (15,088 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments (9 ) (25,725 ) — (119 ) (25,853 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 42,016 192,657 — 8,589 243,262 Acquisition of Rockwood 1,293,467 — 1,482,517 41,151 2,817,135 Other acquisitions (b) — — 23,993 — 23,993 Reclass to assets held for sale (c) — — — (46,794 ) (46,794 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments (47,659 ) (19,929 ) (73,251 ) (2,946 ) (143,785 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 1,287,824 $ 172,728 $ 1,433,259 $ — $ 2,893,811 (a) In 2014, we reduced goodwill by $15.1 million in connection with the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3 “Divestitures” for additional information about this transaction. (b) Primarily relates to the acquisition of the remaining interest in Shanghai Chemetall. See Note 2, “Acquisitions.” (c) See Note 3, “Divestitures.”
Other Intangibles	Other intangibles consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Customer Lists and Relationships Trade Names and Trademarks (a) Patents and Technology Other (b) Total Gross Asset Value Balance at December 31, 2013 $ 86,426 $ 26,907 $ 48,743 $ 38,342 $ 200,418 Acquisitions (c) — — 5,228 — 5,228 Divestitures (d) (34,892 ) (8,171 ) (11,316 ) (14,161 ) (68,540 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (3,055 ) (1,181 ) (2,257 ) (740 ) (7,233 ) Balance at December 31, 2014 48,479 17,555 40,398 23,441 129,873 Acquisition of Rockwood 1,264,226 363,120 227,838 26,410 1,881,594 Other acquisitions (e) 76,052 — 1,433 73 77,558 Reclass to assets held for sale (f) (16,608 ) — (54,060 ) (1,454 ) (72,122 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (88,092 ) (25,468 ) (15,508 ) (6,117 ) (135,185 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 1,284,057 $ 355,207 $ 200,101 $ 42,353 $ 1,881,718 Accumulated Amortization Balance at December 31, 2013 $ (35,988 ) $ (8,970 ) $ (40,354 ) $ (26,903 ) $ (112,215 ) Amortization (2,839 ) (824 ) (388 ) (1,686 ) (5,737 ) Divestitures (d) 14,487 1,539 5,738 5,820 27,584 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 1,409 343 2,173 695 4,620 Balance at December 31, 2014 (22,931 ) (7,912 ) (32,831 ) (22,074 ) (85,748 ) Amortization (51,926 ) (12,228 ) (12,501 ) (627 ) (77,282 ) Reclass to assets held for sale (f) 596 — 3,880 1,322 5,798 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 2,303 381 1,675 4,202 8,561 Balance at December 31, 2015 $ (71,958 ) $ (19,759 ) $ (39,777 ) $ (17,177 ) $ (148,671 ) Net Book Value at December 31, 2014 $ 25,548 $ 9,643 $ 7,567 $ 1,367 $ 44,125 Net Book Value at December 31, 2015 $ 1,212,099 $ 335,448 $ 160,324 $ 25,176 $ 1,733,047 (a) Included in Trade Names and Trademarks are indefinite-lived intangible assets with a gross carrying amount of $9.2 million and $113.1 million at December 31, 2014 and 2015 , respectively. (b) Included in Other is an indefinite-lived intangible asset with a gross carrying amount of $21.9 million at December 31, 2015. (c) Increase in Patents and Technology relates to a purchase accounting adjustment in connection with our acquisition of Cambridge Chemical Company, Ltd. (d) In 2014 we reduced intangible assets by $68.5 million and related accumulated amortization by $27.6 million in connection with the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3 “Divestitures” for additional information about this transaction. (e) Primarily relates to the acquisition of the remaining interest in Shanghai Chemetall. See Note 2, “Acquisitions.” (f) See Note 3, “Divestitures.”
Total Estimated Amortization Expense of Other Intangibles for Next Five Fiscal Years	Total estimated amortization expense of other intangibles, excluding other intangibles in assets held for sale, for the next five fiscal years is as follows (in thousands): Estimated Amortization Expense 2016 $ 90,002 2017 $ 91,485 2018 $ 92,884 2019 $ 93,275 2020 $ 93,189

Accrued Expenses (Tables)

Accrued Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses	Accrued expenses consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Employee benefits, payroll and related taxes $ 125,236 $ 49,072 Obligations in connection with Rockwood acquisition (a) 128,881 — Other (b) 148,262 117,102 Total $ 402,379 $ 166,174 (a) Includes accruals related to certain litigation matters and businesses divested by Rockwood prior to the Acquisition Closing Date. (b) No individual component exceeds 5% of total current liabilities.

Long-Term Debt (Tables)

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Term loan facilities $ 1,250,000 $ — 1.875% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $5,109 at December 31, 2015 and $6,605 at December 31, 2014 763,946 844,315 3.00% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $244 at December 31, 2015 and $306 at December 31, 2014 249,756 249,694 4.15% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $1,294 at December 31, 2015 and $1,439 at December 31, 2014 423,706 423,561 4.50% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $1,557 at December 31, 2015 and $1,871 at December 31, 2014 348,443 348,129 5.10% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $3 at December 31, 2014 — 324,997 5.45% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $995 at December 31, 2015 and $1,029 at December 31, 2014 349,005 348,971 Commercial paper notes 351,349 367,178 Fixed rate foreign borrowings 995 1,958 Variable-rate foreign bank loans 77,452 25,139 Variable-rate domestic bank loans 20,479 — Capital lease obligations 16,807 — Miscellaneous 81 189 Total long-term debt 3,852,019 2,934,131 Less amounts due within one year 677,345 711,096 Long-term debt, less current portion $ 3,174,674 $ 2,223,035

Pension Plans and Other Postr48

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2014 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Pension Assets: Domestic Equity (a) $ 169,581 $ 169,581 $ — $ — International Equity (b) 85,007 85,007 — — Fixed Income (c) 268,911 255,828 13,083 — Absolute Return (d) 80,740 — — 80,740 Cash 3,455 3,455 — — Total Pension Assets $ 607,694 $ 513,871 $ 13,083 $ 80,740 Postretirement Assets: Fixed Income (c) $ 4,439 $ — $ 4,439 $ — (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 international equity funds which invest 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 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 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, 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Pension Assets: Domestic Equity (a) $ 168,945 $ 166,612 $ 2,333 $ — International Equity (b) 143,976 87,311 56,665 — Fixed Income (c) 287,809 240,143 47,666 — Absolute Return (d) 83,127 — — 83,127 Cash 6,930 6,930 — — Total Pension Assets $ 690,787 $ 500,996 $ 106,664 $ 83,127 Postretirement Assets: Fixed Income (c) $ 3,292 $ — $ 3,292 $ — (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 international equity funds which invest 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 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, 2015 (in thousands): Absolute Return: Year Ended December 31, 2015 Beginning Balance $ 80,740 Transfers in due to acquisition 103,237 Purchases 5,641 Sales (103,035 ) Total losses relating to assets sold during the period (a) (610 ) Total unrealized losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date (a) (2,846 ) Ending Balance $ 83,127 (a) These 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, 2014 (in thousands): Absolute Return: Year Ended December 31, 2014 Beginning Balance $ 123,599 Purchases 50,506 Sales (96,397 ) Total losses relating to assets sold during the period (a) (158 ) Total unrealized gains relating to assets still held at the reporting date (a) 3,190 Ending Balance $ 80,740 (a) These (losses) gains are recognized in the consolidated balance sheets and are included as changes in plan assets in the tables above.
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets	The weighted-average target allocations as of the measurement date are as follows: Target Allocation Equity securities 44 % Fixed income 43 % Absolute return 12 % Other 1 %
Current Forecast of Benefit Payments, which Reflect Expected Future Service	The current forecast of benefit payments, which reflects expected future service and excludes plans associated with businesses that were divested in the first quarter of 2016, amounts to (in millions): U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Other Postretirement Benefits 2016 $ 40.3 $ 13.9 $ 4.8 2017 $ 41.4 $ 14.7 $ 4.7 2018 $ 42.8 $ 14.6 $ 4.5 2019 $ 43.8 $ 14.5 $ 4.3 2020 $ 44.8 $ 15.1 $ 4.1 2021-2025 $ 230.9 $ 83.5 $ 18.8
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, as well as a summary of significant assumptions, for our defined benefit pension plans (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 Year Ended December 31, 2014 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Change in benefit obligations: Benefit obligation at January 1 $ 729,652 $ 53,112 $ 629,337 $ 49,245 Service cost 1,233 6,034 7,029 1,746 Interest cost 31,231 9,875 30,491 1,571 Plan amendments — 870 — — Actuarial (gain) loss (55,851 ) (42,977 ) 130,887 10,341 Benefits paid (38,300 ) (16,118 ) (37,866 ) (3,913 ) Acquisitions 39,125 416,150 — — Divestitures (a) — — (30,226 ) — Reclass to liabilities held for sale — (26,608 ) — — Employee contributions — 478 — 283 Foreign exchange gain — (26,708 ) — (6,161 ) Settlements/curtailments — (582 ) — — Other — 331 — — Benefit obligation at December 31 $ 707,090 $ 373,857 $ 729,652 $ 53,112 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at January 1 $ 598,250 $ 9,444 $ 605,604 $ 10,941 Actual return on plan assets (16,789 ) 140 53,696 499 Employer contributions 1,606 16,392 7,042 2,940 Benefits paid (38,300 ) (16,118 ) (37,866 ) (3,913 ) Acquisitions 29,314 109,875 — — Divestitures (a) — — (30,226 ) — Employee contributions — 478 — 283 Foreign exchange loss — (3,237 ) — (1,306 ) Settlements/curtailments — (582 ) — — Other — 314 — — Fair value of plan assets at December 31 $ 574,081 $ 116,706 $ 598,250 $ 9,444 Funded status at December 31 $ (133,009 ) $ (257,151 ) $ (131,402 ) $ (43,668 ) (a) Reduction in benefit obligations and plan assets in 2014 is in connection with the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3 “Divestitures” for additional information about this transaction. December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets: Current liabilities (accrued expenses) $ (1,110 ) $ (7,498 ) $ (3,219 ) $ (1,316 ) Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits) (131,899 ) (249,653 ) (128,183 ) (42,352 ) Net pension liability $ (133,009 ) $ (257,151 ) $ (131,402 ) $ (43,668 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income: Prior service benefit $ (211 ) $ (1,052 ) $ (286 ) $ (321 ) Net amount recognized $ (211 ) $ (1,052 ) $ (286 ) $ (321 ) Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate 4.67 % 2.89 % 4.19 % 1.85 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.17 % — % 3.40 %
Components of Pension Benefits Expense	The components of pension benefits cost (credit) are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 December 31, 2013 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Service cost $ 1,233 $ 6,034 $ 7,029 $ 1,746 $ 12,177 $ 1,785 Interest cost 31,231 9,875 30,491 1,571 28,406 1,477 Expected return on assets (41,635 ) (6,507 ) (39,714 ) (427 ) (38,975 ) (417 ) Actuarial loss (gain) 2,577 (35,813 ) 116,705 10,270 (130,297 ) (2,619 ) Amortization of prior service benefit 75 43 (727 ) 50 (741 ) 52 Total net pension benefits (credit) cost $ (6,519 ) $ (26,368 ) $ 113,784 $ 13,210 $ (129,430 ) $ 278 Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 4.18 % 2.34 % 5.14 % 3.41 % 4.10 % 3.12 % Expected return on plan assets 6.85 % 5.63 % 6.91 % 4.00 % 7.25 % 4.35 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.16 % 3.50 % 3.16 % 3.50 % 3.36 %
Estimated Amounts to Be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	The estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic pension costs during 2016 are as follows (in thousands): U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Amortization of prior service benefit $ 75 $ 853
Other 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, as well as a summary of significant assumptions, for our postretirement benefit plans (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Change in benefit obligations: Benefit obligation at January 1 $ 64,500 $ 62,832 Service cost 137 216 Interest cost 2,573 3,040 Actuarial (gain) loss (5,682 ) 3,741 Benefits paid (5,042 ) (5,329 ) Acquisitions 2,607 — Settlements/curtailments (a) (2,594 ) — Benefit obligation at December 31 $ 56,499 $ 64,500 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at January 1 $ 4,439 $ 5,620 Actual return on plan assets 280 214 Employer contributions 3,615 3,934 Benefits paid (5,042 ) (5,329 ) Fair value of plan assets at December 31 $ 3,292 $ 4,439 Funded status at December 31 $ (53,207 ) $ (60,061 ) (a) We assumed responsibility for one domestic OPEB plan in connection with the acquisition of Rockwood which covered a small number of active employees and retirees. This plan was terminated in the first quarter of 2015 and provisions were made for the affected employees and retirees to receive benefits under an existing plan. December 31, 2015 2014 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets: Current liabilities (accrued expenses) $ (3,560 ) $ (3,637 ) Noncurrent liabilities (postretirement benefits) (49,647 ) (56,424 ) Net postretirement liability $ (53,207 ) $ (60,061 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income: Prior service benefit $ 239 $ 334 Net amount recognized $ 239 $ 334 Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate 4.59 % 4.15 % Rate of compensation increase 3.50 % 3.50 %
Components of Pension Benefits Expense	The components of postretirement benefits cost (credit) are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Service cost $ 137 $ 216 $ 309 Interest cost 2,573 3,040 2,764 Expected return on assets (244 ) (342 ) (413 ) Actuarial (gain) loss (5,707 ) 3,868 (6,120 ) Amortization of prior service benefit (95 ) (95 ) (95 ) Settlements/curtailments (2,594 ) — — Total net postretirement benefits (credit) cost $ (5,930 ) $ 6,687 $ (3,555 ) Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 4.15 % 5.03 % 4.00 % Expected return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % Rate of compensation increase 3.50 % 3.50 % 3.50 %
Estimated Amounts to Be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	The estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic postretirement costs during 2016 are as follows (in thousands): Other Postretirement Benefits Amortization of prior service benefit $ (95 )

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (T

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other Noncurrent Liabilities	Other noncurrent liabilities consist of the following at December 31, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions (a) $ 101,677 $ 25,340 Executive deferred compensation plan obligation 21,631 22,168 Environmental liabilities (b) 33,805 4,841 Asset retirement obligations (b) 37,230 15,085 Other 60,483 20,271 Total $ 254,826 $ 87,705 (a) See Note 20, “Income Taxes.” (b) See Note 17, “Commitments and Contingencies.”

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Balance, beginning of year $ 9,235 $ 16,599 $ 20,322 Expenditures (4,178 ) (4,548 ) (3,013 ) Acquisition of Rockwood 38,666 — — Divestitures (1,826 ) (1,954 ) — Accretion of discount 984 — — Revisions of estimates 150 34 (902 ) Reclass to liabilities held for sale (5,253 ) — — Foreign currency translation (2,480 ) (896 ) 192 Balance, end of year 35,298 9,235 16,599 Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses 1,493 4,394 7,386 Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities $ 33,805 $ 4,841 $ 9,213
Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation	The following is a reconciliation of our beginning and ending asset retirement obligation balances for 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 Balance, beginning of year $ 15,085 $ 16,930 Acquisition of Rockwood 17,265 — Liabilities incurred 3,636 — Accretion of discount 1,289 323 Liabilities settled — (333 ) Divestitures — (1,816 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments (45 ) (19 ) Balance, end of year $ 37,230 $ 15,085
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): Operating Leases Capital Leases 2016 $ 14,643 $ 3,163 2017 $ 10,664 $ 3,178 2018 $ 9,217 $ 3,193 2019 $ 7,436 $ 10,201 2020 $ 6,665 $ — Thereafter $ 21,124 $ — 19,735 Less: amount representing interest 2,928 Present value of net minimum obligations $ 16,807
Letters of Credit and Guarantee Agreements	The following table summarizes our letters of credit and guarantee agreements (in thousands): 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Thereafter Letters of credit and other guarantees $ 24,789 $ 11,248 $ 3,190 $ 14 $ 210 $ 24,356

Stock-based Compensation Expe51

Stock-based Compensation Expense (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 : Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands) Outstanding at December 31, 2014 1,484,243 $ 50.30 6.5 $ 17,887 Granted 313,803 55.74 Exercised (18,000 ) 28.72 Forfeited (98,519 ) 62.98 Expired (4,600 ) 66.14 Outstanding at December 31, 2015 1,676,927 $ 50.76 6.1 $ 14,152 Exercisable at December 31, 2015 998,952 $ 43.95 4.5 $ 14,048
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, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions: Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Dividend yield 1.80 % 1.71 % 1.58 % Volatility 32.92 % 33.03 % 33.55 % Average expected life (years) 6 6 6 Risk-free interest rate 2.17 % 2.94 % 2.18 % Fair value of options granted $ 16.04 $ 19.56 $ 19.73
Activity in Performance Unit Awards	The following table summarizes activity in performance unit awards as of and for the year ended December 31, 2015 : Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested, beginning of period 456,018 $ 66.21 Granted 214,610 55.34 Vested (43,177 ) 65.39 Forfeited (130,246 ) 64.50 Nonvested, end of period 497,205 62.04
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, 2015 : Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested, beginning of period 105,288 $ 61.34 Granted 61,156 56.64 Vested (39,073 ) 61.97 Forfeited (9,250 ) 62.37 Nonvested, end of period 118,121 58.62

Accumulated Other Comprehensi52

Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Components and Activity in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Deferred Income Taxes	The components and activity in Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (net of deferred income taxes) consisted of the following during the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Foreign Currency Translation (a) Pension and Post-Retirement Benefits (b) Net Investment Hedge Interest Rate Swap (c) Other Total Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) - balance at December 31, 2012 $ 85,117 $ 989 $ — $ — $ (842 ) $ 85,264 Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 31,704 — — — (2 ) 31,702 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income — (502 ) — — 137 (365 ) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 31,704 (502 ) — — 135 31,337 Other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests (356 ) — — — — (356 ) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) - balance at December 31, 2013 $ 116,465 $ 487 $ — $ — $ (707 ) $ 116,245 Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (151,059 ) — 11,384 (21,174 ) — (160,849 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (17,750 ) (487 ) — 212 136 (17,889 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (168,809 ) (487 ) 11,384 (20,962 ) 136 (178,738 ) Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 80 — — — — 80 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2014 $ (52,264 ) $ — $ 11,384 $ (20,962 ) $ (571 ) $ (62,413 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (412,999 ) (774 ) 50,861 — 2 (362,910 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income — 16 — 2,101 27 2,144 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (412,999 ) (758 ) 50,861 2,101 29 (360,766 ) Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 1,891 — — — — 1,891 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2015 $ (463,372 ) $ (758 ) $ 62,245 $ (18,861 ) $ (542 ) $ (421,288 ) (a) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income for the year ended December 31, 2014 are included in (Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2014 and resulted from the release of cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments into earnings upon the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3, “Divestitures.” (b) The pre-tax portion of amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income consists of amortization of prior service benefit, which is a component of pension and postretirement benefits cost (credit). See Note 15, “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits.” (c) The pre-tax portion of amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income is included in interest expense.
Amount of Income Tax (Expense) Benefit Allocated to Component of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	The amount of income tax (expense) benefit allocated to each component of Other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 is provided in the following tables (in thousands): Foreign Currency Translation Pension and Postretirement Benefits Net Investment Hedge (a) Interest Rate Swap (b) Other 2015 Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax $ (451,781 ) $ (751 ) $ 80,746 $ 3,336 $ 19 Income tax benefit (expense) 38,782 (7 ) (29,885 ) (1,235 ) 10 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax $ (412,999 ) $ (758 ) $ 50,861 $ 2,101 $ 29 2014 Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax $ (163,536 ) $ (772 ) $ 17,971 $ (33,091 ) $ 217 Income tax (expense) benefit (5,273 ) 285 (6,587 ) 12,129 (81 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax $ (168,809 ) $ (487 ) $ 11,384 $ (20,962 ) $ 136 2013 Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax $ 29,895 $ (781 ) $ — $ — $ 214 Income tax benefit (expense) 1,809 279 — — (79 ) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax $ 31,704 $ (502 ) $ — $ — $ 135 (a) Other comprehensive income, before tax, for the year ended December 31, 2014 includes $12.8 million related to the revaluation of our euro-denominated senior notes and a $5.2 million gain on the settlement of related foreign currency forward contracts, both of which were designated as a hedge of our net investment in foreign operations. See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” for additional information about these transactions. (b) Other comprehensive (loss), before tax, for the year ended December 31, 2014 includes a realized loss of ($33.4) million on the settlement of our forward starting interest rate swap which was designated and accounted for as a cash flow hedge under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging . See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” for additional information about this interest rate swap.

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 2014 2013 Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments: Domestic $ 8,594 $ 45,689 $ 351,731 Foreign 349,593 167,490 186,711 Total $ 358,187 $ 213,179 $ 538,442 Current income tax expense: Federal $ 85,245 $ 36,708 $ 53,953 State 71 3,209 2,195 Foreign 80,104 25,700 18,414 Total $ 165,420 $ 65,617 $ 74,562 Deferred income tax (benefit) expense: Federal $ (129,433 ) $ (32,890 ) $ 69,817 State (1,170 ) (1,139 ) 2,416 Foreign (5,695 ) (13,104 ) (12,350 ) Total $ (136,298 ) $ (47,133 ) $ 59,883 Total income tax expense $ 29,122 $ 18,484 $ 134,445
Significant Differences Between United States Federal Statutory Rate and Effective Income Tax Rate	The reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate to the effective income tax rate is as follows: % of Income Before Income Taxes 2015 2014 2013 Federal statutory rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % State taxes, net of federal tax benefit 1.7 0.2 0.7 Change in valuation allowance (a) 4.7 1.0 (2.2 ) Impact of foreign earnings, net (b) (19.6 ) (24.8 ) (10.7 ) Subpart F income 6.8 1.2 0.4 Deemed repatriation of foreign income (d) 91.6 — — Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries (b)(d) (99.6 ) (0.3 ) 2.9 Nondeductible transaction costs 1.8 — — Depletion (1.6 ) (2.4 ) (0.9 ) Revaluation of unrecognized tax benefits/reserve requirements (c) (11.3 ) (0.6 ) (0.1 ) Domestic manufacturing tax deduction (0.9 ) (2.2 ) (0.9 ) Other items, net (0.5 ) 1.6 0.8 Effective income tax rate 8.1 % 8.7 % 25.0 % (a) During 2013, our Avonmouth, U.K. legal entity was dissolved, therefore the corresponding valuation allowance and deferred tax assets were written off. (b) During 2015 , 2014 and 2013 , we received actual and deemed distributions of $1.4 billion , $12.6 million and $12.3 million , respectively, from various foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures, and realized an expense, net of foreign tax credits, of $350.2 million , $2.8 million and $2.4 million , respectively, related to the repatriation of these earnings, which impacted our effective tax rate. 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. This gave us a rate benefit of 7.1% , 12.4% , and 4.5% for 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. (c) During 2014, we released various tax reserves primarily related to the expiration of the applicable U.S. federal statute of limitations for 2009 through 2010 which provided a net benefit of approximately $2.5 million . In 2015, the main impact is from the release of reserves on the close of a U.S. federal audit, and lapse of statute of limitations. These releases provided a net benefit of approximately $41 million . (d) In prior years, we designated the undistributed earnings of substantially all of our foreign subsidiaries as indefinitely invested. In 2015, we were not indefinitely invested in a portion of earnings from legacy Rockwood entities that were part of the repatriation planning, for which a deferred tax liability of $387.0 million was established in the opening balance sheet. This liability reversed upon the completion of the repatriation with $356.2 million impacting earnings and $30.8 million from foreign exchange differences. The reversal of this liability offsets the tax amount of $327.9 million from legacy Rockwood entities included in the deemed repatriation of foreign income.
Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities Recorded on Consolidated Balance Sheets	Deferred income tax assets and liabilities recorded on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2015 2014 Deferred tax assets: Accrued employee benefits $ 28,167 $ 20,834 Accrued expenses 33,048 2,379 Operating loss carryovers 131,985 82,017 Pensions 111,059 79,113 Intangibles — 5,732 Tax credit carryovers 2,555 34,469 Other 32,725 20,227 Gross deferred tax assets 339,539 244,771 Valuation allowance (85,370 ) (30,768 ) Deferred tax assets 254,169 214,003 Deferred tax liabilities: Depreciation (378,669 ) (190,280 ) Intangibles (488,855 ) — Foreign currency translation adjustments — (4,752 ) Other (46,937 ) (18,420 ) Deferred tax liabilities (914,461 ) (213,452 ) Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets $ (660,292 ) $ 551 Classification in the consolidated balance sheets: Current deferred tax assets $ — $ 1,801 Current deferred tax liabilities — (6,806 ) Noncurrent deferred tax assets 76,025 62,440 Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities (736,317 ) (56,884 ) Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets $ (660,292 ) $ 551
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, 2015 2014 2013 Balance at January 1 $ (30,768 ) $ (33,757 ) $ (49,562 ) Additions (a) (61,122 ) (1,895 ) (4,359 ) Deductions 6,520 4,884 20,164 Balance at December 31 $ (85,370 ) $ (30,768 ) $ (33,757 )
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 2015 , 2014 and 2013 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Balance at January 1 $ 24,969 $ 29,143 $ 28,398 Acquisition of Rockwood 124,758 — — Additions for tax positions related to prior years 4,329 — — Reductions for tax positions related to prior years (46,211 ) (214 ) (348 ) Additions for tax positions related to current year 202 2,232 2,061 Lapses in statutes of limitations/settlements (6,736 ) (5,057 ) (473 ) Foreign currency translation adjustment (5,596 ) (1,135 ) (495 ) Balance at December 31 $ 95,715 $ 24,969 $ 29,143

Restructuring and Other (Tables

Restructuring and Other (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring and Other Charges Reported in Consolidated Statements of Income	Restructuring and other, net, reported in the consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2015 , 2014 and 2013 consists of the following (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business (a) $ (6,804 ) $ — $ — Charges in connection with aluminum alkyl supply capacity reduction (b) — 23,521 — Charges in connection with global business realignment (c) — — 33,361 Other, net (d) — 2,426 — Total Restructuring and other, net $ (6,804 ) $ 25,947 $ 33,361 (a) In the third quarter of 2015, a gain of $6.8 million ( $5.4 million after income taxes) was recognized upon the sale of land in Avonmouth, U.K., which was utilized by the phosphorus flame retardants business we exited in 2012. In 2012, charges in connection with our exit of the phosphorus flame retardants business were recorded in Restructuring and other, net, on our consolidated statements of income. (b) In 2014, we initiated action to reduce high cost supply capacity of certain aluminum alkyl products, primarily through the termination of a third party manufacturing contract. Based on the contract termination, we estimated costs of approximately $14.0 million ( $9.3 million after income taxes) in the first quarter and $6.5 million ( $4.3 million after income taxes) in the fourth quarter for contract termination and volume commitments. Additionally, in the first quarter of 2014 we recorded an impairment charge of $3.0 million ( $1.9 million after income taxes) for certain capital project costs also related to aluminum alkyls capacity which we do not expect to recover. (c) In connection with an announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014, in the fourth quarter of 2013 we initiated a workforce reduction plan which resulted 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 complete. (d) The amount for 2014 mainly consists of $3.3 million ( $2.1 million after income taxes) recorded in the second quarter for certain multi-product facility project costs that we do not expect to recover in future periods, net of other credits recorded in the fourth quarter.

Fair Value of Financial Instr55

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of Long-Term Debt	December 31, 2015 2014 Recorded Amount Fair Value Recorded Amount Fair Value (In thousands) Long-term debt $ 3,852,019 $ 3,810,981 $ 2,934,131 $ 2,994,935

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
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, 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): December 31, 2015 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Assets: Investments under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 21,631 $ 21,631 $ — $ — Private equity securities (b) $ 2,626 $ 31 $ — $ 2,595 Pension assets (c) $ 690,787 $ 500,996 $ 106,664 $ 83,127 Postretirement assets (c) $ 3,292 $ — $ 3,292 $ — Liabilities: Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 21,631 $ 21,631 $ — $ — Foreign currency forward contracts (d) $ 250 $ — $ 250 $ — December 31, 2014 Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Assets: Investments under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 22,168 $ 22,168 $ — $ — Private equity securities (b) $ 1,806 $ 21 $ — $ 1,785 Foreign currency forward contracts (d) $ 631 $ — $ 631 $ — Pension assets (c) $ 607,694 $ 513,871 $ 13,083 $ 80,740 Postretirement assets (c) $ 4,439 $ — $ 4,439 $ — Liabilities: Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 22,168 $ 22,168 $ — $ — (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 income (expenses), net, in our consolidated statements of 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) See Note 15 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets, including the reconciliations of the plans’ Level 3 assets. (d) 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 foreign currency forward contracts. Unless otherwise noted, these derivative financial instruments are not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging . 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. The following table presents the fair value reconciliation of private equity securities Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis for the periods indicated (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 Beginning balance $ 1,785 $ 750 Total unrealized gains included in earnings relating to assets still held at the reporting date 810 35 Purchases — 1,000 Ending balance $ 2,595 $ 1,785

Related Party Transactions (Tab

Related Party Transactions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block]	Our consolidated financial statements include sales to and purchases from unconsolidated affiliates in the ordinary course of business as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 Sales to unconsolidated affiliates $ 25,903 $ 45,415 $ 29,420 Purchases from unconsolidated affiliates 115,697 64,631 57,022

Segment and Geographic Area I58

Segment and Geographic Area Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments	Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Net sales: Performance Chemicals $ 1,610,319 $ 1,121,645 $ 1,141,890 Refining Solutions 729,261 852,139 775,207 Chemetall Surface Treatment 824,906 — — All Other 471,434 471,764 477,173 Corporate 15,415 — — Total net sales $ 3,651,335 $ 2,445,548 $ 2,394,270 Adjusted EBITDA: Performance Chemicals $ 535,520 $ 306,572 $ 364,712 Refining Solutions 197,595 256,485 190,388 Chemetall Surface Treatment 202,028 — — All Other 53,993 73,973 71,691 Corporate (29,814 ) (74,875 ) (69,240 ) Total adjusted EBITDA $ 959,322 $ 562,155 $ 557,551 See below for a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA, the non-GAAP financial measure, to Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP, (in thousands): Performance Chemicals Refining Solutions Chemetall Surface Treatment Reportable Segments Total All Other Corporate Consolidated Total 2015 Adjusted EBITDA $ 535,520 $ 197,595 $ 202,028 $ 935,143 $ 53,993 $ (29,814 ) $ 959,322 Depreciation and amortization (120,248 ) (34,039 ) (78,903 ) (233,190 ) (18,183 ) (8,703 ) (260,076 ) Utilization of inventory markup (a) (79,977 ) — (20,030 ) (100,007 ) (3,029 ) — (103,036 ) Restructuring and other, net (c) — — — — — 6,804 6,804 Acquisition and integration related costs (b) — — — — — (146,096 ) (146,096 ) Interest and financing expenses — — — — — (132,722 ) (132,722 ) Income tax expense — — — — — (29,122 ) (29,122 ) Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — 46,244 46,244 Other (d) — (1,971 ) — (1,971 ) — (4,441 ) (6,412 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 335,295 $ 161,585 $ 103,095 $ 599,975 $ 32,781 $ (297,850 ) $ 334,906 2014 Adjusted EBITDA $ 306,572 $ 256,485 $ — $ 563,057 $ 73,973 $ (74,875 ) $ 562,155 Depreciation and amortization (e) (51,707 ) (32,670 ) — (84,377 ) (13,478 ) (2,552 ) (100,407 ) Restructuring and other, net (c) — — — — — (25,947 ) (25,947 ) Acquisition and integration related costs (b) — — — — — (30,158 ) (30,158 ) Interest and financing expenses — — — — — (41,358 ) (41,358 ) Income tax expense — — — — — (18,484 ) (18,484 ) (Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax) — — — — — (69,531 ) (69,531 ) Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — (125,462 ) (125,462 ) Other (d) — — — — — (17,492 ) (17,492 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 254,865 $ 223,815 $ — $ 478,680 $ 60,495 $ (405,859 ) $ 133,316 2013 Adjusted EBITDA $ 364,712 $ 190,388 $ — $ 555,100 $ 71,691 $ (69,240 ) $ 557,551 Depreciation and amortization (e) (46,225 ) (33,580 ) — (79,805 ) (13,323 ) (2,188 ) (95,316 ) Restructuring and other, net (c) — — — — — (33,361 ) (33,361 ) Interest and financing expenses — — — — — (31,559 ) (31,559 ) Income tax expense — — — — — (134,445 ) (134,445 ) (Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax) — — — — — 4,108 4,108 Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — 146,193 146,193 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 318,487 $ 156,808 $ — $ 475,295 $ 58,368 $ (120,492 ) $ 413,171 (a) In connection with the acquisition of Rockwood, the Company valued Rockwood’s existing inventory at fair value as of the Acquisition Closing Date, which resulted in a markup of the underlying net book value of the inventory totaling approximately $103 million . The inventory markup was expensed over the estimated remaining selling period. For the year ended December 31, 2015 , $75.9 million was included in Cost of goods sold, and Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments was reduced by $ 27.1 million related to the utilization of the inventory markup. (b) See Note 2, “Acquisitions.” (c) See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.” (d) For the year ended December 31, 2015, Refining Solutions includes an impairment charge of approximately $2.0 million related to our unconsolidated investment in Fábrica Carioca de Catalisadores SA. For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, Corporate includes approximately $4.4 million and $17.5 million , respectively, of financing-related fees expensed in connection with the acquisition of Rockwood. (e) Excludes discontinued operations. As of December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Identifiable assets: Performance Chemicals $ 4,358,598 $ 1,085,246 $ 1,148,478 Refining Solutions 937,445 1,100,361 1,217,313 Chemetall Surface Treatment 3,207,621 — — All Other 517,695 268,555 468,147 Corporate (a) 593,655 2,768,941 750,859 Total identifiable assets $ 9,615,014 $ 5,223,103 $ 3,584,797 Goodwill: Performance Chemicals $ 1,287,824 $ 42,016 $ 42,025 Refining Solutions 172,728 192,657 218,382 Chemetall Surface Treatment 1,433,259 — — All Other — 8,589 23,796 Total goodwill $ 2,893,811 $ 243,262 $ 284,203 (a) As of December 31, 2014, Corporate included net proceeds received from the issuance of the 2014 Senior Notes, which, together with borrowings from our Commercial Paper Notes, August 2014 Term Loan Agreement and Cash Bridge Facility, were used to finance the cash portion of the Merger Consideration, pay related fees and expenses and repay our senior notes which matured on February 1, 2015. See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” and Note 2, “Acquisitions” for additional details about these transactions. Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Depreciation and amortization: Performance Chemicals $ 120,248 $ 51,707 $ 46,225 Refining Solutions 34,039 32,670 33,580 Chemetall Surface Treatment 78,903 — — Discontinued Operations — 3,165 12,054 All Other 18,183 13,478 13,323 Corporate 8,703 2,552 2,188 Total depreciation and amortization $ 260,076 $ 103,572 $ 107,370 Capital expenditures: Performance Chemicals $ 159,338 $ 52,280 $ 119,500 Refining Solutions 28,836 49,219 16,501 Chemetall Surface Treatment 23,738 — — All Other 13,054 9,053 18,831 Corporate 2,683 24 514 Total capital expenditures $ 227,649 $ 110,576 $ 155,346
Net Sales by Geographic Area	Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Net Sales: United States $ 1,118,847 $ 884,373 $ 933,182 Foreign (a) 2,532,488 1,561,175 1,461,088 Total $ 3,651,335 $ 2,445,548 $ 2,394,270 (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 by Geographic Area	As of December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Long-Lived Assets: United States $ 833,238 $ 698,863 $ 748,719 Chile 916,965 — — Netherlands 157,644 167,965 193,775 Jordan 230,460 227,805 227,818 Australia 282,552 — — Brazil 45,847 59,474 78,078 Germany 189,895 75,813 86,175 China 29,780 5,310 41,858 France 50,991 37,347 34,523 Korea 72,685 80,362 86,827 United Kingdom 5,320 3,665 3,665 Other foreign countries 103,977 48,819 47,139 Total $ 2,919,354 $ 1,405,423 $ 1,548,577
Net Sales to External Customers by Product Category	Net sales to external customers by product category in each of the segments consists of the following: Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 2013 (In thousands) Performance Chemicals: Bromine $ 775,729 $ 808,857 $ 856,298 Lithium 508,844 — — Performance Catalyst Solutions 325,746 312,788 285,592 Total Performance Chemicals $ 1,610,319 $ 1,121,645 $ 1,141,890 Refining Solutions $ 729,261 $ 852,139 $ 775,207 Chemetall Surface Treatment $ 824,906 $ — $ —

Quarterly Financial Summary (59

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Summary	First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 Net sales $ 884,404 $ 931,485 $ 905,093 $ 930,353 Gross profit $ 258,466 $ 300,566 $ 312,210 $ 325,630 Restructuring and other, net (a) $ — $ — $ (6,804 ) $ — Acquisition and integration related costs (b) $ 59,523 $ 24,166 $ 42,798 $ 19,609 Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation (c) $ 43,115 $ 52,147 $ 65,392 $ 174,252 Basic earnings per share (c) $ 0.40 $ 0.46 $ 0.58 $ 1.55 Shares used to compute basic earnings per share 108,130 112,189 112,202 112,207 Diluted earnings per share (c) $ 0.40 $ 0.46 $ 0.58 $ 1.55 Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share 108,464 112,607 112,544 112,608 First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2014 Net sales $ 599,843 $ 604,721 $ 642,418 $ 598,566 Gross profit $ 195,599 $ 207,363 $ 205,446 $ 162,440 Restructuring and other, net (a) $ 17,000 $ 3,332 $ 293 $ 5,322 Acquisition and integration related costs (b) $ — $ 4,843 $ 10,261 $ 15,054 Net income (loss) from continuing operations $ 66,004 $ 89,404 $ 88,019 $ (12,990 ) Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) (d) (1,769 ) (60,025 ) (6,679 ) (1,058 ) Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (7,652 ) (6,932 ) (8,546 ) (4,460 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 56,583 $ 22,447 $ 72,794 $ (18,508 ) Basic earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 0.73 $ 1.05 $ 1.02 $ (0.22 ) Discontinued operations (0.02 ) (0.76 ) (0.09 ) (0.02 ) $ 0.71 $ 0.29 $ 0.93 $ (0.24 ) Shares used to compute basic earnings per share 79,735 78,662 78,244 78,144 Diluted earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 0.73 $ 1.04 $ 1.01 $ (0.22 ) Discontinued operations (0.02 ) (0.76 ) (0.08 ) (0.02 ) $ 0.71 $ 0.28 $ 0.93 $ (0.24 ) Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share 80,112 79,091 78,659 78,545 (a) See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.” (b) See Note 2, “Acquisitions.” (c) The fourth quarter of 2015 includes an income tax benefit of $44.6 million primarily related to the release of certain tax reserves associated with lapses in statutes of limitations and audit closures. (d) Included in Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2014 is ($65.7) million related to the loss on the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets, the majority of which was recorded in the second quarter. See Note 3, “Divestitures.”

Summary of Significant Accoun60

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)segment	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments | segment	3
Foreign exchange transaction gains (losses) | $	$ 51.8	$ (3.7)	$ (10.6)
Maximum remaining expiration period for foreign currency forward contracts	1 year
Minimum
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	2 years
Definite-lived intangible assets useful life	5 years
Maximum
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	60 years
Definite-lived intangible assets useful life	25 years
Planned Major Maintenance Activities
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	12 months

Acquisitions (Details)

Acquisitions (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Jan. 12, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill		$ 2,893,811	$ 243,262	$ 284,203
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total purchase price	$ 5,725,321
Cash and cash equivalents	1,555,139
Trade and other accounts receivable	262,947
Inventories	290,326
Other current assets	86,267
Property, plant and equipment	1,377,249
Investments	529,453
Other assets	25,538
Current liabilities	(406,513)
Long-term debt	(1,319,132)
Pension benefits	(316,086)
Other noncurrent liabilities	(195,052)
Deferred income taxes	(845,965)
Noncontrolling interests	(17,582)
Total identifiable net assets	2,908,186
Goodwill	2,817,135
Total net assets acquired	5,725,321
Pro forma Net sales		3,684,665	3,870,428
Pro forma Net income from continuing operations		$ 527,997	$ 353,313
Pro forma Net income from continuing operations per share, basic		$ 4.75	$ 3.13
Pro forma Net income from continuing operations per share, diluted		$ 4.73	$ 3.12
Patents and Technology | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Definite-lived intangible assets	227,840
Trademarks and Trade Names | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Definite-lived intangible assets	258,740
Customer Lists and Relationships | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Definite-lived intangible assets	1,264,227
Trademarks and Trade Names | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived intangible assets	104,380
Other | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived intangible assets	$ 26,410

Acquisitions - Additional Infor

Acquisitions - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Dec. 23, 2015	Jan. 29, 2015	Jan. 12, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Oct. 15, 2015	Feb. 19, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Share price			$ 59.70
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)			$ 0.01	$ 0.01								$ 0.01								$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Acquisition and integration related costs				$ 19,609	[1]	$ 42,798	[1]	$ 24,166	[1]	$ 59,523	[1]	$ 15,054	[1]	$ 10,261	[1]	$ 4,843	[1]	$ 0	[1]	$ 146,096	$ 30,158	$ 0
Net sales				930,353		905,093		931,485		884,404		598,566		642,418		604,721		599,843		3,651,335	2,445,548	2,394,270
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation				174,252		$ 65,392		$ 52,147		$ 43,115		(18,508)		$ 72,794		$ 22,447		$ 56,583		334,906	133,316	413,171
Goodwill				$ 2,893,811								$ 243,262								2,893,811	243,262	284,203
Purchase of noncontrolling interest																				4,784	0	$ 0
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total purchase price			$ 5,725,321
Cash issued per outstanding share of Rockwood common stock			$ 50.65
Equity issued per outstanding share of Rockwood common stock			0.4803
Acquisition and integration related costs																				137,700	23,600
Net sales																				1,400,000
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																				176,200
Goodwill			$ 2,817,135
Change in purchase price allocation, goodwill																				192,300
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life			23 years
Utilization of inventory markup																				103,000
Other significant projects
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition and integration related costs																				8,400	$ 6,600
Shanghai Chemetall
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Equity interest acquired, percentage		40.00%
Acquisition of remaining interest in Shanghai Chemetall		$ 57,600
Acquisition of remaining interest in Shanghai Chemetall, net of cash acquired		45,600
Equity interest in acquiree, fair value		$ 60,000
Nanjing Chemetall Surface Treatment Technologies [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Purchase of noncontrolling interest	$ 4,800
Common Stock | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Common stock - number of shares issued			34,100,000
Appraisal shares																								882,000
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)			$ 0.01
Patents and Technology | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life			20 years
Trademarks and Trade Names | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life			20 years
Customer Lists and Relationships | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life			24 years
4.625% Senior Notes
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate			4.625%
Principal amount of debt			$ 1,250,000
Unamortized premium			$ 43,700																				$ 38,000
Cost of Sales | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition measurement period adjustments																				3,000
Utilization of inventory markup																				$ 75,900
[1]	See Note 2, “Acquisitions.”

Divestitures Divestitures - Ass

Divestitures Divestitures - Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Current assets	$ 156,421
Net property, plant and equipment	115,865
Goodwill	46,794
Other intangibles, net of amortization	66,324
All other noncurrent assets	19,081
Assets held for sale	404,485	$ 0
Current liabilities	72,756
Deferred income taxes	24,947
All other noncurrent liabilities	31,003
Liabilities held for sale	$ 128,706	$ 0

Divestitures - Discontinued Ope

Divestitures - Discontinued Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	[1]	Sep. 30, 2014	[1]	Jun. 30, 2014	[1]	Mar. 31, 2014	[1]	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax)	$ (1,058)		$ (6,679)		$ (60,025)		$ (1,769)		$ 0	$ (69,531)	$ 4,108
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Net sales										154,273	222,146
(Loss) income from discontinued operations										(90,439)	5,985
Income tax (benefit) expense										(20,908)	1,877
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax)										$ (69,531)	$ 4,108
[1]	Included in Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2014 is ($65.7) million related to the loss on the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets, the majority of which was recorded in the second quarter. See Note 3, “Divestitures.”

Divestitures - Additional Infor

Divestitures - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Feb. 01, 2016	Jan. 04, 2016	Sep. 01, 2014	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash proceeds from divestitures, net					$ 8,883	$ 104,718	$ 0
Loss on disposal of businesses					$ 0	(85,515)	$ 0
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash proceeds from divestitures, net			$ 104,700
Working capital settlement				$ 7,600
Loss on disposal of businesses						(85,500)
Loss on disposal of businesses, net of tax						(65,700)
Cumulative foreign currency translation gains included in pre-tax impairment charge						$ 17,800
Subsequent Event | Metal Sulfides Business
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash proceeds from divestitures, net		$ 137,000
Subsequent Event | Mineral Flame Retardants and Specialty Chemicals Businesses
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash proceeds from divestitures, net	$ 187,000
Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Ownership percentage					50.00%	50.00%	50.00%

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform66

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Income taxes (net of refunds of $7,333, $6,035 and $14,296 in 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively)	$ 162,408	[1]	$ 56,174	$ 51,772
Interest (net of capitalization)	153,271		33,604	29,629
Capital expenditures included in Accounts payable	$ 45,826		$ 20,373	$ 13,741
[1]	Cash paid for income taxes during 2015 includes approximately $111 million of taxes paid on repatriation of earnings from legacy Rockwood entities.

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform67

Supplemental Cash Flow Information - Parenthetical (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Income taxes, refunds	$ 7,333	$ 6,035	$ 14,296

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform68

Supplemental Cash Flow Information Footnote (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items]
Foreign earnings repatriated	$ 1,400	$ 12.6	$ 12.3
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items]
Foreign earnings repatriated	$ 111

Earnings Per Share (Details)

Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income from continuing operations					$ (12,990)	$ 88,019	$ 89,404	$ 66,004	$ 360,064	$ 230,437	$ 435,726
Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests									(25,158)	(27,590)	(26,663)
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation									$ 334,906	$ 202,847	$ 409,063
Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share (in shares)	112,207	112,202	112,189	108,130	78,144	78,244	78,662	79,735	111,182	78,696	83,839
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)					$ (0.22)	$ 1.02	$ 1.05	$ 0.73	$ 3.01	$ 2.57	$ 4.88
Incremental shares under stock compensation plans									374	406	483
Weighted-average common shares for diluted earnings per share (in shares)	112,608	112,544	112,607	108,464	78,545	78,659	79,091	80,112	111,556	79,102	84,322
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)					$ (0.22)	$ 1.01	$ 1.04	$ 0.73	$ 3	$ 2.57	$ 4.85

Earnings Per Share - Additional

Earnings Per Share - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Feb. 12, 2013
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Common stock equivalents not included in computation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)	1,114,041
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	15,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	0
Payment for repurchase of common stock	$ 0	$ 150,000	$ 582,298
Shares available for repurchase	3,749,340
Common Stock
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Shares repurchased (in shares)		2,190,254	9,198,056
Maximum
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Stock repurchase program, number of shares authorized to be repurchased (in shares)				15,000,000
Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Shares repurchased (in shares)		2,190,254	7,064,932
Payment for repurchase of common stock		$ 150,000	$ 450,000
Restricted Stock
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of shares containing nonforfeitable rights to dividends (in shares)	9,250

Other Accounts Receivable (Deta

Other Accounts Receivable (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Receivables [Abstract]
Value added tax/consumption tax	$ 24,316	$ 23,205
Other	55,561	26,218
Total	$ 79,877	$ 49,423

Inventories (Details)

Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Finished goods	$ 308,462		$ 262,769
Raw materials and work in process	144,886	[1]	53,152
Stores, supplies and other	55,380		42,440
Total inventories	$ 508,728		$ 358,361
[1]	Balance at December 31, 2015 includes $39.1 million of work in process related to the Lithium product category.

Inventories - Additional Inform

Inventories - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Inventory [Line Items]
Percentage of LIFO inventory	17.00%	28.00%
Inventories stated on LIFO basis	$ 85.1	$ 100.7
Excess of replacement costs over stated LIFO value	36.9	$ 43
Lithium
Inventory [Line Items]
Work in process related to Lithium	$ 39.1

Other Current Assets (Details)

Other Current Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Assets [Abstract]
Deferred income taxes—current	[1]	$ 0	$ 1,801
Income tax receivables		23,740	22,837
Prepaid expenses		43,280	41,448
Other		4,331	0
Total		$ 71,351	$ 66,086
[1]	See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.”

Property, Plant and Equipment75

Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Land	[1]	$ 145,912	$ 56,249
Land improvements		59,423	49,099
Buildings and improvements	[1]	297,163	214,364
Machinery and equipment	[2]	2,305,641	2,106,451
Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs		652,871	85,888
Construction in progress		420,152	108,619
Total		$ 3,881,162	$ 2,620,670
Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life		2 years
Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life		60 years
Land improvements | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life		5 years
Land improvements | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life		30 years
Buildings and improvements | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life		10 years
Buildings and improvements | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life		45 years
Machinery and equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life		2 years
Machinery and equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life		45 years
Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life		7 years
Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life		60 years
[1]	Includes Land under capital lease of $2.8 million and Buildings and improvements under capital lease of $9.9 million at December 31, 2015.
[2]	Consists primarily of (1) short-lived production equipment components, office and building equipment and other equipment with estimated lives ranging 2 – 7 years, (2) production process equipment (intermediate components) with estimated lives ranging 8 – 19 years, (3) production process equipment (major unit components) with estimated lives ranging 20 – 29 years, and (4) production process equipment (infrastructure and other) with estimated lives ranging 30 – 45 years.

Property, Plant and Equipment76

Property, Plant and Equipment (Footnote) (Details) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Land
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Assets under capital leases	$ 2.8
Buildings and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Assets under capital leases	$ 9.9
Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	2 years
Minimum | Buildings and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	10 years
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
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	60 years
Maximum | Buildings and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	45 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

Property Plant and Equipment -

Property Plant and Equipment - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation	$ 180,700	$ 97,900	$ 99,300
Interest capitalized on significant capital projects	11,200	2,400	6,100
Accumulated amortization	1,396,424	1,388,802
Property, plant and equipment under capital lease
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Accumulated amortization	300
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Reduction in net assets from business exit or disposal		100,000
Depreciation		$ 2,300	$ 8,600
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment allocated from Rockwood acquistion	$ 1,400,000

Investments Investment Balances

Investments Investment Balances (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments [Abstract]
Joint ventures	$ 430,952	$ 169,891
Nonmarketable securities	208	177
Marketable equity securities	24,257	23,974
Total	$ 455,417	$ 194,042

Investments Ownership Positions

Investments Ownership Positions in Significant Unconsolidated (Details)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Windfield Holdings
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	49.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Nippon Aluminum Alkyls
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Nippon Ketjen Company Limited
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Eurecat S.A.
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Fabrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A.
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%

Investments Summary of Assets,

Investments Summary of Assets, Liabilities and Results of Operations for Significant Unconsolidated Joint Ventures (Details) - Significant Unconsolidated Joint Ventures - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Current assets	$ 331,630	$ 226,392
Noncurrent assets	935,790	181,343
Total assets	1,267,420	407,735
Current liabilities	106,966	74,242
Noncurrent liabilities	339,604	63,585
Total liabilities	446,570	137,827
Net sales	560,376	499,394	$ 499,941
Gross profit	253,569	164,063	168,898
Income before income taxes	157,501	101,983	101,680
Net income	$ 111,491	$ 71,466	$ 71,322

Investments Additional Informat

Investments Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)		$ 30,999	$ 35,742	$ 31,729
Dividends received from unconsolidated investments		59,912	40,688	21,632
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures exceeded the amount of underlying equity in net assets		11,500	7,000
Excess amount paid for joint ventures remaining to be amortized		800	1,000
Return of capital from unconsolidated investment		98,000	0	0
Marketable equity securities		24,257	23,974
Long-term advances to joint ventures	[1]	31,780	34,084
Significant Unconsolidated Joint Venture
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Investment in significant unconsolidated joint ventures		402,600	148,300
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)		25,400	34,700	32,200
Undistributed earnings from equity method investees		105,900	107,800
Dividends received from unconsolidated investments		$ 58,100	$ 39,600	$ 20,100
Windfield Holdings
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage		49.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Return of capital from unconsolidated investment		$ 98,000
Saudi Organometallic Chemicals Company
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage		50.00%
Interest rate margin over LIBOR		1.275%
Benefit Protection Trust
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Marketable equity securities		$ 21,600	$ 22,200
Other Assets | Saudi Organometallic Chemicals Company
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Long-term advances to joint ventures		$ 30,000	30,000
Windfield Holdings
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage		49.00%
Carrying value of unconsolidated investment		$ 280,200
Other Variable Interest Entities Excluding Windfield Holdings
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Carrying value of unconsolidated investment		27,600	$ 6,200
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Utilization of inventory markup		103,000
Equity in Net Income of Unconsolidated Investments | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Utilization of inventory markup		$ 27,100
[1]	See Note 10, “Investments.”

Other Assets (Details)

Other Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Deferred income taxes—noncurrent	[1]	$ 76,025	$ 62,440
Assets related to unrecognized tax benefits	[1]	50,875	22,100
Long-term advances to joint ventures	[2]	31,780	34,084
Deferred financing costs	[3]	19,605	23,583
Other		38,713	18,749
Total		$ 216,998	$ 160,956
[1]	See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.”
[2]	See Note 10, “Investments.”
[3]	See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt.”

Goodwill and Other Intangible83

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Changes in Goodwill by Operating Segment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance		$ 243,262	$ 284,203
Divestitures	[1]		(15,088)
Reclass to assets held for sale	[2]	(46,794)
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(143,785)	(25,853)
Goodwill, Ending Balance		2,893,811	243,262
Performance Chemicals
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance		42,016	42,025
Divestitures			0
Reclass to assets held for sale		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(47,659)	(9)
Goodwill, Ending Balance		1,287,824	42,016
Refining Solutions
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance		192,657	218,382
Divestitures			0
Reclass to assets held for sale		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(19,929)	(25,725)
Goodwill, Ending Balance		172,728	192,657
Chemetall Surface Treatment
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance		0	0
Divestitures			0
Reclass to assets held for sale		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(73,251)	0
Goodwill, Ending Balance		1,433,259	0
All Other
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance		8,589	23,796
Divestitures	[1]		(15,088)
Reclass to assets held for sale	[2]	(46,794)
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(2,946)	(119)
Goodwill, Ending Balance		0	8,589
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Divestitures			$ (15,100)
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of goodwill		2,817,135
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Performance Chemicals
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of goodwill		1,293,467
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Refining Solutions
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of goodwill		0
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Chemetall Surface Treatment
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of goodwill		1,482,517
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | All Other
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of goodwill		41,151
Other significant projects
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of goodwill	[3]	23,993
Other significant projects | Performance Chemicals
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of goodwill		0
Other significant projects | Refining Solutions
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of goodwill		0
Other significant projects | Chemetall Surface Treatment
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of goodwill	[3]	23,993
Other significant projects | All Other
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of goodwill		$ 0
[1]	In 2014, we reduced goodwill by $15.1 million in connection with the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3 “Divestitures” for additional information about this transaction.
[2]	See Note 3, “Divestitures.”
[3]	Primarily relates to the acquisition of the remaining interest in Shanghai Chemetall. See Note 2, “Acquisitions.”

Goodwill and Other Intangible84

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Changes in Goodwill by Operating Segment (Footnote) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	$ 15,088	[1]
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	$ 15,100
[1]	In 2014, we reduced goodwill by $15.1 million in connection with the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3 “Divestitures” for additional information about this transaction.

Goodwill and Other Intangible85

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Other Intangibles (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance		$ 129,873		$ 200,418
Divestitures	[1]			(68,540)
Reclass to assets held for sale	[2]	(72,122)
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		(135,185)		(7,233)
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance		1,881,718		129,873		$ 200,418
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance		(85,748)		(112,215)
Amortization		(77,282)		(5,737)		(8,100)
Removal of Accumulated Amortization of Intangible Assets From Impairment	[1]			27,584
Reclass to assets held for sale	[2]	5,798
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		8,561		4,620
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance		(148,671)		(85,748)		(112,215)
Net Book Value		1,733,047		44,125
Customer Lists and Relationships
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance		48,479		86,426
Divestitures				(34,892)
Reclass to assets held for sale	[2]	(16,608)
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		(88,092)		(3,055)
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance		1,284,057		48,479		86,426
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance		(22,931)		(35,988)
Amortization		(51,926)		(2,839)
Removal of Accumulated Amortization of Intangible Assets From Impairment				14,487
Reclass to assets held for sale	[2]	596
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		2,303		1,409
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance		(71,958)		(22,931)		(35,988)
Net Book Value		1,212,099		25,548
Trademarks and Trade Names
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance		17,555	[3]	26,907
Divestitures				(8,171)
Reclass to assets held for sale	[2]	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		(25,468)		(1,181)
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance		355,207	[3]	17,555	[3]	26,907
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance		(7,912)		(8,970)
Amortization		(12,228)		(824)
Removal of Accumulated Amortization of Intangible Assets From Impairment				1,539
Reclass to assets held for sale	[2]	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		381		343
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance		(19,759)		(7,912)		(8,970)
Net Book Value		335,448		9,643
Patents and Technology
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance		40,398		48,743
Divestitures				(11,316)
Reclass to assets held for sale	[2]	(54,060)
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		(15,508)		(2,257)
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance		200,101		40,398		48,743
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance		(32,831)		(40,354)
Amortization		(12,501)		(388)
Removal of Accumulated Amortization of Intangible Assets From Impairment				5,738
Reclass to assets held for sale	[2]	3,880
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		1,675		2,173
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance		(39,777)		(32,831)		(40,354)
Net Book Value		160,324		7,567
Other
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance		23,441		38,342
Divestitures				(14,161)
Reclass to assets held for sale	[2]	(1,454)
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		(6,117)		(740)
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance		42,353	[4]	23,441		38,342
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance		(22,074)		(26,903)
Amortization		(627)		(1,686)
Removal of Accumulated Amortization of Intangible Assets From Impairment				5,820
Reclass to assets held for sale	[2]	1,322
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		4,202		695
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance		(17,177)		(22,074)		(26,903)
Net Book Value		25,176		1,367
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Divestitures				(68,500)
Amortization				(900)		$ (3,500)
Removal of Accumulated Amortization of Intangible Assets From Impairment				27,600
Cambridge Chemical Company
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions	[5]			5,228
Cambridge Chemical Company | Customer Lists and Relationships
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions				0
Cambridge Chemical Company | Trademarks and Trade Names
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions				0
Cambridge Chemical Company | Patents and Technology
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions	[5]			5,228
Cambridge Chemical Company | Other
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions				$ 0
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		1,881,594
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Customer Lists and Relationships
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		1,264,226
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Trademarks and Trade Names
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		363,120
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Patents and Technology
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		227,838
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Other
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		26,410
Other significant projects
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions	[6]	77,558
Other significant projects | Customer Lists and Relationships
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions	[6]	76,052
Other significant projects | Trademarks and Trade Names
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions	[6]	0
Other significant projects | Patents and Technology
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions	[6]	1,433
Other significant projects | Other
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions	[6]	$ 73
[1]	In 2014 we reduced intangible assets by $68.5 million and related accumulated amortization by $27.6 million in connection with the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3 “Divestitures” for additional information about this transaction.
[2]	See Note 3, “Divestitures.”
[3]	Included in Trade Names and Trademarks are indefinite-lived intangible assets with a gross carrying amount of $9.2 million and $113.1 million at December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively.
[4]	Included in Other is an indefinite-lived intangible asset with a gross carrying amount of $21.9 million at December 31, 2015.
[5]	Increase in Patents and Technology relates to a purchase accounting adjustment in connection with our acquisition of Cambridge Chemical Company, Ltd.
[6]	Primarily relates to the acquisition of the remaining interest in Shanghai Chemetall. See Note 2, “Acquisitions.”

Goodwill and Other Intangible86

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Other Intangibles (Footnote) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Divestitures	[1]	$ 68,540
Intangible assets, accumulated amortization, reduction	[1]	27,584
Trademarks and Trade Names
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived intangible asset, gross carrying amount		9,200	$ 113,100
Other
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived intangible asset, gross carrying amount			$ 21,900
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Divestitures		68,500
Intangible assets, accumulated amortization, reduction		$ 27,600
[1]	In 2014 we reduced intangible assets by $68.5 million and related accumulated amortization by $27.6 million in connection with the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3 “Divestitures” for additional information about this transaction.

Goodwill and Other Intangible87

Goodwill and Other Intangibles - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets	$ 77,282	$ 5,737	$ 8,100
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	25 years
Customer Lists and Relationships
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets	$ 51,926	2,839
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
Trademarks and Trade Names
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets	$ 12,228	824
Trademarks and Trade Names | Minimum
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	11 years
Trademarks and Trade Names | Maximum
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	20 years
Patents and Technology
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets	$ 12,501	388
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
Other
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets	$ 627	1,686
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	15 years
Amortized using the pattern of economic benefit method [Member]
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets	$ 49,200
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets		$ 900	$ 3,500

Goodwill and Other Intangible88

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Total Estimated Amortization Expense of Other Intangibles for Next Five Fiscal Years (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
2,016	$ 90,002
2,017	91,485
2,018	92,884
2,019	93,275
2,020	$ 93,189

Accrued Expenses (Details)

Accrued Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Employee benefits, payroll and related taxes		$ 125,236	$ 49,072
Obligations in connection with Rockwood acquisition	[1]	128,881	0
Other	[2]	148,262	117,102
Total		$ 402,379	$ 166,174
[1]	Includes accruals related to certain litigation matters and businesses divested by Rockwood prior to the Acquisition Closing Date.
[2]	No individual component exceeds 5% of total current liabilities.

Accrued Expenses Accrued Expens

Accrued Expenses Accrued Expenses Footnote (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Total Current Liabilities
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Benchmark for individual components of accrued expenses, percentage	5.00%

Long-Term Debt (Details)

Long-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	$ 3,852,019	$ 2,934,131
Current portion of long-term debt	677,345	711,096
Long-term debt	3,174,674	2,223,035
Term loan facilities | September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	1,250,000	0
Senior Notes | 1.875% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	763,946	844,315
Senior Notes | 3.00% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	249,756	249,694
Senior Notes | 4.15% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	423,706	423,561
Senior Notes | 4.50% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	348,443	348,129
Senior Notes | 5.10% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	0	324,997
Senior Notes | 5.45% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	349,005	348,971
Commercial Paper
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	351,349	367,178
Fixed Rate Foreign Borrowings
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	995	1,958
Variable-rate foreign bank loans
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	77,452	25,139
Variable-rate domestic bank loans
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	20,479	0
Capital Lease Obligations
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	16,807	0
Other long-term debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	$ 81	$ 189

Long-Term Debt Interest Rates (

Long-Term Debt Interest Rates (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Feb. 01, 2015	Feb. 28, 2015	Jan. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 08, 2014	Nov. 24, 2014	Dec. 10, 2010	Jan. 20, 2005
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt				$ 2,626,241	$ 6,017	$ 135,733
1.875% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized discount				$ 5,109	$ 6,605
Debt instrument, interest rate				1.875%	1.875%		1.875%
3.00% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized discount				$ 244	$ 306
Debt instrument, interest rate				3.00%	3.00%			3.00%
4.15% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized discount				$ 1,294	$ 1,439
Debt instrument, interest rate				4.15%	4.15%			4.15%
4.50% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized discount				$ 1,557	$ 1,871
Debt instrument, interest rate				4.50%	4.50%				4.50%
5.10% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized discount					$ 3
Debt instrument, interest rate					5.10%					5.10%
Repayments of long-term debt	$ 325,000
5.45% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized discount				$ 995	$ 1,029
Debt instrument, interest rate				5.45%	5.45%			5.45%
Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt		$ 250,000
Short-term Debt | Term Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt		$ 183,500	$ 816,500
Senior Unsecured Cash Bridge Facility | Bridge Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt			$ 800,000
Domestic Financial Institution Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Line of Credit				$ 0	$ 0
Foreign Credit Line U S Dollar Euro Denominated Borrowings
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Line of Credit				0	0
Other Foreign Credit Lines
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Line of Credit				$ 0	$ 0

Long-Term Debt - Additional Inf

Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Details)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Oct. 15, 2015USD ($)	Feb. 01, 2015USD ($)	Jan. 12, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 18, 2014USD ($)	Nov. 24, 2014USD ($)tranche	Oct. 15, 2014USD ($)	Feb. 07, 2014USD ($)	Feb. 28, 2015USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2015USD ($)	Feb. 19, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)	Dec. 22, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 08, 2014EUR (€)	Dec. 02, 2014USD ($)	Nov. 24, 2014EUR (€)	Aug. 15, 2014USD ($)	Jan. 22, 2014USD ($)payment	May. 29, 2013USD ($)	Dec. 10, 2010USD ($)	Jan. 20, 2005USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2016	$ 677,300,000											$ 677,300,000
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2017	59,100,000											59,100,000
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2018	86,400,000											86,400,000
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2019	335,500,000											335,500,000
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2020	1,158,400,000											1,158,400,000
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, thereafter	1,544,500,000											1,544,500,000
Payment for settlement of interest rate swap												0	$ 33,425,000	$ 0
Interest rate cash flow hedge gain (loss) to be reclassified during next 12 months	3,300,000											3,300,000
Repayments of long-term debt												2,626,241,000	6,017,000	135,733,000
Proceeds from borrowings of other long-term debt												2,250,000,000	0	117,000,000
Debt financing costs paid												4,544,000	$ 17,644,000	$ 108,000
Revolving credit facility, remaining borrowings available	$ 648,700,000											$ 648,700,000
1.875% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt | €																€ 700,000,000
Debt instrument, interest rate	1.875%											1.875%	1.875%			1.875%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage																2.10%
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, before tax												$ 50,900,000	$ 12,800,000
3.00% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt						$ 250,000,000
Debt instrument, interest rate	3.00%					3.00%						3.00%	3.00%					3.00%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage						3.18%												3.18%
4.15% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt						$ 425,000,000
Debt instrument, interest rate	4.15%					4.15%						4.15%	4.15%					4.15%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage						5.06%												5.06%
Number of semi annual coupon payments | payment																				20
4.50% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt																						$ 350,000,000
Debt instrument, interest rate	4.50%											4.50%	4.50%									4.50%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage																						4.70%
5.10% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt																							$ 325,000,000
Debt instrument, interest rate													5.10%										5.10%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage																							5.19%
Repayments of long-term debt			$ 325,000,000
5.45% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt						$ 350,000,000
Debt instrument, interest rate	5.45%					5.45%						5.45%	5.45%					5.45%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage						5.50%												5.50%
4.625% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt				$ 1,250,000,000
Debt instrument, interest rate				4.625%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage				3.95%
Unamortized premium		$ 38,000,000		$ 43,700,000
Debt instrument, redemption price, percentage		103.469%
Payments of debt premium		$ 43,300,000
Loss on early extinguishment of debt												$ 5,400,000
364 Day Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt	$ 300,000,000											300,000,000
Five Year Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt	$ 950,000,000											$ 950,000,000
Long-term debt principal payment amount prior to second anniversary of funding, percentage	1.25%											1.25%
Long-term debt principal payment amount on or after second anniversary of funding, percentage	2.50%											2.50%
Commercial Paper
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commercial paper notes	$ 351,300,000											$ 351,300,000
Weighted-average interest rate	1.07%											1.07%
Debt instrument maturity period												29 days
Line of Credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity	$ 256,901,000											$ 256,901,000
Borrowings outstanding under credit facility	$ 98,900,000											$ 98,900,000	$ 27,100,000
Average interest rate on borrowings	0.74%											0.74%	0.83%	0.76%
Maximum | Commercial Paper
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commercial paper notes																					$ 750,000,000
Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt									$ 250,000,000
Interest rate margin	1.30%
Revolving credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity								$ 1,000,000,000							$ 1,000,000,000
Debt covenant ratio, maximum debt to EBITDA				3.50				3.50
Debt covenant								20.00%
Proceeds from borrowings of other long-term debt										$ 250,000,000
Revolving Credit Facility | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin								1.00%
Revolving Credit Facility | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin								1.70%
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt covenant ratio, maximum debt to EBITDA				4.50
Debt covenant ratio, maximum debt to EBITDA, quarterly reduction following completion of merger, number of quarters				4
Debt covenant ratio, maximum debt to EBITDA, quarterly reduction following completion of merger				0.25
Senior Unsecured Cash Bridge Facility | Bridge Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt										800,000,000
Proceeds from borrowings of other long-term debt										$ 800,000,000
Weighted-average interest rate										1.67%
Additional borrowing capacity amount																	$ 1,150,000,000
Bridge Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Bridge loan fees													$ 19,000,000
Bridge loan fees expensed in period												$ 2,300,000	16,700,000
Short-term Debt | Term Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt									$ 183,500,000	$ 816,500,000
Proceeds from borrowings of other long-term debt										$ 1,000,000,000
Weighted-average interest rate									1.67%
Debt instrument maturity period												364 days
Additional borrowing capacity amount																			$ 1,000,000,000
Interest Rate Swap | JP Morgan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount																				$ 325,000,000
Derivative, fixed interest rate																				3.281%
Payment for settlement of interest rate swap							$ 33,400,000
Forward Contracts
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount	$ 217,700,000											$ 217,700,000	$ 479,900,000
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, before tax					$ 5,200,000
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin												1.375%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Minimum | September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin												1.00%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Maximum | September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin												1.875%
Federal funds rate | September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin												0.50%
One-Month London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin												1.00%
Base Rate Additional Margin | Minimum | September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin												0.00%
Base Rate Additional Margin | Maximum | September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin												0.875%
Net Investment Hedge | Forward Contracts
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount | €																		€ 700,000,000
Number of tranches | tranche						2
Derivative notional amount per tranche | €																		€ 350,000,000
Subsequent Event | 364 Day Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt											$ 300,000,000
Subsequent Event | Five Year Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt											$ 31,000,000

Pension Plans and Other Postr94

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jan. 01, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2005
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation for defined benefit pension plans		$ 1,100,000	$ 776,600
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
Transfers between fair value level 1 and level 2		$ 0
Percentage of defined benefit plan assets in U.S. and U.K.		98.00%
Change in percentage of broad asset class targets		10.00%
Pension and postretirement contributions		$ 21,613	$ 13,916	$ 13,294
Assumed rate of increase in the pre-65 per capita cost of covered health care benefits for U.S. retirees		0.00%
Assumed rate of increase in the post-65 per capita cost of covered health care benefits for U.S. retirees		0.00%
Defined contribution plan, employer matching contribution percentage		5.00%
U.S. Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets		6.85%	6.91%	7.25%
Projected benefit obligation recognized		$ 707,090	$ 729,652	$ 629,337
Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets		5.63%	4.00%	4.35%
Projected benefit obligation recognized		$ 373,857	$ 53,112	$ 49,245
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets		7.00%	7.00%	7.00%
Expected premium contribution		$ 4,000
Projected benefit obligation recognized		56,499	$ 64,500	$ 62,832
Total Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected contributions to benefit plans in 2016		13,000
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected contributions to benefit plans in 2016		1,100
Expenses (credits) related to supplemental executive retirement plan		(2,100)	7,300	(1,500)
Projected benefit obligation recognized		23,100	26,400
2004 Defined Contribution Plan | U.S. Postretirement Benefit Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan, employer contributions		12,800	8,400	8,800
Employee Savings Plan | U.S. Postretirement Benefit Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan, employer contributions		11,700	10,000	10,600
Employee Savings Plan | Foreign Postretirement Benefit Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan, employer contributions		$ 7,200	$ 10,100	$ 10,300
Subsequent Event | U.S. Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets	6.90%
Subsequent Event | Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets	5.65%
Subsequent Event | Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets	7.00%

Pension Plans and Other Postr95

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 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
U.S. Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation, beginning balance		$ 729,652		$ 629,337
Service cost		1,233		7,029		$ 12,177
Interest cost		31,231		30,491		28,406
Plan amendments		0		0
Actuarial (gain) loss		(55,851)		130,887
Benefits paid		(38,300)		(37,866)
Acquisitions		39,125		0
Divestitures	[1]	0		(30,226)
Reclass to liabilities held for sale		0		0
Employee contributions		0		0
Foreign exchange gain		0		0
Settlements/curtailments		0		0
Other		0		0
Benefit obligation, ending balance		707,090		729,652		629,337
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance		598,250		605,604
Actual return on plan assets		(16,789)		53,696
Employer contributions		1,606		7,042
Benefits paid		(38,300)		(37,866)
Acquisitions		29,314		0
Divestitures	[1]	0		(30,226)
Employee contributions		0		0
Foreign exchange loss		0		0
Settlements/curtailments		0		0
Other		0		0
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance		574,081		598,250		605,604
Funded status		(133,009)		(131,402)
Current liabilities (accrued expenses)		(1,110)		(3,219)
Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits)		(131,899)		(128,183)
Net pension liability		(133,009)		(131,402)
Prior service benefit		(211)		(286)
Net amount recognized		$ (211)		$ (286)
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31:
Discount Rate		4.67%		4.19%
Rate of compensation increase		0.00%		0.00%
Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation, beginning balance		$ 53,112		$ 49,245
Service cost		6,034		1,746		1,785
Interest cost		9,875		1,571		1,477
Plan amendments		870		0
Actuarial (gain) loss		(42,977)		10,341
Benefits paid		(16,118)		(3,913)
Acquisitions		416,150		0
Divestitures	[1]	0		0
Reclass to liabilities held for sale		(26,608)		0
Employee contributions		478		283
Foreign exchange gain		(26,708)		(6,161)
Settlements/curtailments		(582)		0
Other		331		0
Benefit obligation, ending balance		373,857		53,112		49,245
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance		9,444		10,941
Actual return on plan assets		140		499
Employer contributions		16,392		2,940
Benefits paid		(16,118)		(3,913)
Acquisitions		109,875		0
Divestitures	[1]	0		0
Employee contributions		478		283
Foreign exchange loss		(3,237)		(1,306)
Settlements/curtailments		(582)		0
Other		314		0
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance		116,706		9,444		10,941
Funded status		(257,151)		(43,668)
Current liabilities (accrued expenses)		(7,498)		(1,316)
Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits)		(249,653)		(42,352)
Net pension liability		(257,151)		(43,668)
Prior service benefit		(1,052)		(321)
Net amount recognized		$ (1,052)		$ (321)
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31:
Discount Rate		2.89%		1.85%
Rate of compensation increase		3.17%		3.40%
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation, beginning balance		$ 64,500		$ 62,832
Service cost		137		216		309
Interest cost		2,573		3,040		2,764
Actuarial (gain) loss		(5,682)		3,741
Benefits paid		(5,042)		(5,329)
Acquisitions		2,607		0
Settlements/curtailments	[2]	(2,594)		0
Benefit obligation, ending balance		56,499		64,500		62,832
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance		4,439	[3]	5,620
Actual return on plan assets		280		214
Employer contributions		3,615		3,934
Benefits paid		(5,042)		(5,329)
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance		3,292	[4]	4,439	[3]	$ 5,620
Funded status		(53,207)		(60,061)
Current liabilities (accrued expenses)		(3,560)		(3,637)
Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits)		(49,647)		(56,424)
Net pension liability		(53,207)		(60,061)
Prior service benefit		239		334
Net amount recognized		$ 239		$ 334
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31:
Discount Rate		4.59%		4.15%
Rate of compensation increase		3.50%		3.50%
[1]	Reduction in benefit obligations and plan assets in 2014 is in connection with the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3 “Divestitures” for additional information about this transaction.
[2]	We assumed responsibility for one domestic OPEB plan in connection with the acquisition of Rockwood which covered a small number of active employees and retirees. This plan was terminated in the first quarter of 2015 and provisions were made for the affected employees and retirees to receive benefits under an existing plan.
[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 foreign currency forward contracts. Unless otherwise noted, these derivative financial instruments are not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging. 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 15 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets, including the reconciliations of the plans’ Level 3 assets.

Pension Plans and Other Postr96

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Components of Pension and Postretirement Benefits Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actuarial loss (gain)	$ (38,900)	$ 112,600	$ 2,800	$ 15,400
U.S. Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost					$ 1,233	$ 7,029	$ 12,177
Interest cost					31,231	30,491	28,406
Expected return on assets					(41,635)	(39,714)	(38,975)
Actuarial loss (gain)					2,577	116,705	(130,297)
Amortization of prior service benefit					75	(727)	(741)
Total net pension benefits (credit) cost					$ (6,519)	$ 113,784	$ (129,430)
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Discount rate					4.18%	5.14%	4.10%
Expected return on plan assets					6.85%	6.91%	7.25%
Rate of compensation increase					0.00%	3.50%	3.50%
Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost					$ 6,034	$ 1,746	$ 1,785
Interest cost					9,875	1,571	1,477
Expected return on assets					(6,507)	(427)	(417)
Actuarial loss (gain)					(35,813)	10,270	(2,619)
Amortization of prior service benefit					43	50	52
Total net pension benefits (credit) cost					$ (26,368)	$ 13,210	$ 278
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Discount rate					2.34%	3.41%	3.12%
Expected return on plan assets					5.63%	4.00%	4.35%
Rate of compensation increase					3.16%	3.16%	3.36%
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost					$ 137	$ 216	$ 309
Interest cost					2,573	3,040	2,764
Expected return on assets					(244)	(342)	(413)
Actuarial loss (gain)					(5,707)	3,868	(6,120)
Amortization of prior service benefit					(95)	(95)	(95)
Settlements/curtailments					(2,594)	0	0
Total net pension benefits (credit) cost					$ (5,930)	$ 6,687	$ (3,555)
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Discount rate					4.15%	5.03%	4.00%
Expected return on plan assets					7.00%	7.00%	7.00%
Rate of compensation increase					3.50%	3.50%	3.50%

Pension Plans and Other Postr97

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Estimated Amounts to Be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into Net Periodic Benefit Costs (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
U.S. Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Future amortization of prior service benefit	$ 75
Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Future amortization of prior service benefit	853
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Future amortization of prior service benefit	$ (95)

Pension Plans and Other Postr98

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Financial Assets Accounted for at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities	[1]	$ 250
Total Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	[2]	690,787		$ 607,694
Total Pension Benefits | Domestic Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		168,945	[3]	169,581	[4]
Total Pension Benefits | International Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		143,976	[5]	85,007	[6]
Total Pension Benefits | Fixed Income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		287,809	[7]	268,911	[8]
Total Pension Benefits | Absolute Return
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		83,127	[9]	80,740	[10]
Total Pension Benefits | Cash
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		6,930		3,455
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		3,292	[2]	4,439	[1]	$ 5,620
Other Postretirement Benefits | Fixed Income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		3,292	[7]	4,439	[8]
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities		0
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Total Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	[2]	500,996		513,871
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		166,612	[3]	169,581	[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		87,311	[5]	85,007	[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		240,143	[7]	255,828	[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		0	[9]	0	[10]
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		6,930		3,455
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0		0
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Other Postretirement Benefits | Fixed Income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0	[7]	0
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities	[1]	250
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	[2]	106,664		13,083
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		2,333	[3]	0
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		56,665	[5]	0
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		47,666	[7]	13,083	[8]
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Pension Benefits | Absolute Return
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0	[9]	0
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		0
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		3,292	[2]	4,439	[1]
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Other Postretirement Benefits | Fixed Income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		3,292	[7]	4,439	[8]
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities		0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		83,127	[2]	80,740	[2]	$ 123,599
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits | Domestic Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0	[3]	0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits | International Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0	[5]	0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits | Fixed Income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0	[7]	0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits | Absolute Return
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		83,127	[9]	80,740	[10]
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits | Cash
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0		0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0		0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Other Postretirement Benefits | Fixed Income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		$ 0	[7]	$ 0
[1]	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 foreign currency forward contracts. Unless otherwise noted, these derivative financial instruments are not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging. 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.
[2]	See Note 15 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets, including the reconciliations of the plans’ Level 3 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. stock funds that track or are actively managed and measured against the S&P 500 index.
[5]	Consists primarily of international equity funds which invest 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 invest 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.
[7]	Consists primarily of debt obligations issued by governments, corporations, municipalities and other borrowers. Also includes insurance policies.
[8]	Consists primarily of debt obligations issued by governments, corporations, municipalities and other borrowers. Also includes insurance policies.
[9]	Consists primarily of funds with holdings in private investment companies. See additional information about the Absolute Return investments below.
[10]	Consists primarily of funds with holdings in private investment companies. See additional information about the Absolute Return investments below.

Pension Plans and Other Postr99

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Changes in Fair Value of Plans Level 3 Assets (Details) - Total Pension Benefits - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance	[1]	$ 607,694
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance	[1]	690,787		$ 607,694
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance		80,740	[1]	123,599
Transfers in due to acquisition		103,237
Purchases		5,641		50,506
Sales		(103,035)		(96,397)
Total losses relating to assets sold during the period		(610)	[2]	(158)	[3]
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings relating to assets still held at the reporting date		(2,846)	[2]	3,190	[3]
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance	[1]	$ 83,127		$ 80,740
[1]	See Note 15 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets, including the reconciliations of the plans’ Level 3 assets.
[2]	These losses are recognized in the consolidated balance sheets and are included as changes in plan assets in the tables above.
[3]	These (losses) gains are recognized in the consolidated balance sheets and are included as changes in plan assets in the tables above.

Pension Plans and Other Post100

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Current Forecast of Benefit Payments which Reflect Expected Future Service (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
U.S. Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,016	$ 40.3
2,017	41.4
2,018	42.8
2,019	43.8
2,020	44.8
2021-2025	230.9
Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,016	13.9
2,017	14.7
2,018	14.6
2,019	14.5
2,020	15.1
2021-2025	83.5
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,016	4.8
2,017	4.7
2,018	4.5
2,019	4.3
2,020	4.1
2021-2025	$ 18.8

Pension Plans and Other Post101

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Multiemployer Plans (Details) - 12 months ended Dec. 31, 2015 € in Millions, $ in Millions	USD ($)	EUR (€)
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Multiemployer Plan Minimum Level of Funding for Highest Funding Zone Status	80.00%	80.00%
Multiemployer Plan, Period Contributions	$ 3.1	€ 2.7
Minimum
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Contributions to Multiemployer Plan, Percentage of Total Contributions to Plan	5.00%	5.00%

Pension Plans and Other Post102

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Defined Benefit Plan Asset Target Allocation (Details) - Total Pension Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocations percentage of assets	44.00%
Fixed Income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocations percentage of assets	43.00%
Absolute Return
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocations percentage of assets	12.00%
Other
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocations percentage of assets	1.00%

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (D

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions	[1]	$ 101,677		$ 25,340
Executive deferred compensation plan obligation		21,631		22,168
Environmental liabilities		33,805	[2]	4,841	[2]	$ 9,213
Asset retirement obligations	[2]	37,230		15,085
Other		60,483		20,271
Total		$ 254,826		$ 87,705
[1]	See Note 20, “Income Taxes.”
[2]	See Note 17, “Commitments and Contingencies.”

Commitments and Contingencies A

Commitments and Contingencies Activity in Recorded Environmental Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of year	$ 9,235	$ 16,599	$ 20,322
Expenditures	(4,178)	(4,548)	(3,013)
Acquisitions (divestitures)	(1,826)	(1,954)	0
Accretion of discount	984	0	0
Revisions of estimates	150	34	(902)
Reclass to liabilities held for sale	(5,253)	0	0
Foreign currency translation	(2,480)	(896)	192
Balance, end of year	9,235	16,599	20,322	$ 35,298		$ 9,235		$ 16,599
Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses				1,493		4,394		7,386
Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities				$ 33,805	[1]	$ 4,841	[1]	$ 9,213
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions (divestitures)	$ 38,666	$ 0	$ 0
[1]	See Note 17, “Commitments and Contingencies.”

Commitments and Contingencie105

Commitments and Contingencies Activity in Recorded Asset Retirement Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015
Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of year	$ 15,085	$ 16,930
Liabilities incurred	3,636	0
Accretion of discount	1,289	323
Liabilities settled	0	(333)
Divestitures	0	(1,816)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(45)	(19)
Balance, end of year	15,085	16,930	$ 37,230
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward]
Liabilities incurred	$ 17,265	$ 0

Commitments and Contingencies F

Commitments and Contingencies Future Non-Cancelable Minimum Lease Payments for Next Five Years and Thereafter (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Minimum Operating Lease Payments
2,016	$ 14,643
2,017	10,664
2,018	9,217
2,019	7,436
2,020	6,665
Thereafter	21,124
Minimum Capital Lease Payments
2,016	3,163
2,017	3,178
2,018	3,193
2,019	10,201
2,020	0
Thereafter	0
Future capital lease minimum payments due	19,735
Less: amount representing interest	2,928
Present value of net minimum obligations	$ 16,807

Commitments and Contingencies L

Commitments and Contingencies Letters of Credit and Guarantee Agreements (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
2,016	$ 24,789
2,017	11,248
2,018	3,190
2,019	14
2,020	210
Thereafter	$ 24,356

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Acquisitions (divestitures)	$ (1,826)	$ (1,954)	$ 0
Environmental remediation liabilities - discounted	24,500
Environmental remediation liabilities - undiscounted	64,500
Potential revision on future environmental remediation costs before tax	18,000
Rental expense	45,000	31,900	30,700
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Rental expense		1,300	1,600
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Acquisitions (divestitures)	$ 38,666	$ 0	$ 0
Maximum
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Accrual for environmental loss contingencies - discount rate	4.30%
Minimum
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Accrual for environmental loss contingencies - discount rate	2.80%

Stock-based Compensation Exp109

Stock-based Compensation Expense - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 20, 2010	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	May. 07, 2013
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Stock options granted during the period (in shares)		313,803	222,939	297,924
Common stock authorized for non-employee directors (in shares)		150,000,000	150,000,000
Stock-based compensation		$ 15,188,000	$ 14,267,000	$ 10,164,000
Tax benefits recognized related to stock based compensation		5,600,000	5,200,000	3,700,000
Proceeds from stock option exercised		$ 517,000	2,713,000	5,553,000
Minimum
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based awards vesting period		1 year
Maximum
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based awards vesting period		5 years
Albemarle Corporation 2008 Incentive Plan
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Increase in number of shares available for issuance under incentive plan (in shares)	4,470,000
Reduced incentive plan awards number of shares for each share (in shares)	1.6
Shares available for grant (in shares)		2,622,398
Albemarle Corporation 2008 Incentive Plan | Maximum
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Number of shares available for issuance under incentive plan (in shares)	7,470,000
Non Employee Directors, Plan
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Common stock authorized for non-employee directors (in shares)					500,000
Shares available for grant (in shares)		451,466
Non Employee Directors, Plan | Maximum
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Fair market value of shares issued per director per year		$ 150,000
Stock Options
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based awards vesting period		3 years
Stock options, term		10 years
Intrinsic value of stock options exercised		$ 500,000	2,400,000	$ 7,000,000
Compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested share		$ 7,900,000
Remaining weighted average period for recognition of compensation cost years		2 years 3 months 18 days
Proceeds from stock option exercised		$ 500,000
Tax benefit from stock option exercised		200,000
Performance Unit Awards
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Performance unit award payout percentage				200.00%
Compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested share		$ 13,400,000
Remaining weighted average period for recognition of compensation cost years		1 year 7 months 6 days
Weighted average grant date fair value		$ 11,900,000	20,100,000	$ 16,900,000
Fair value of performance units earned in current year, related to awards granted in prior years				6,300,000
Weighted average fair value of awards vested in period		$ 2,500,000	7,400,000	14,500,000
Number of common stock share for each performance unit (in shares)		1
Performance Unit Awards | Minimum
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Performance unit award payout percentage		0.00%
Specific performance criteria period		1 year
Performance Unit Awards | Maximum
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Performance unit award payout percentage		200.00%
Specific performance criteria period		3 years
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested share		$ 3,500,000
Remaining weighted average period for recognition of compensation cost years		2 years 1 month 6 days
Weighted average grant date fair value		$ 3,500,000	2,700,000	3,400,000
Weighted average fair value of awards vested in period		$ 2,200,000	$ 2,100,000	$ 3,200,000
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units | Minimum
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based awards vesting period		1 year
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units | Maximum
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based awards vesting period		5 years
Two Year Measurement Period
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Percentage of award distributed		50.00%
One Year Vesting Period Thereafter
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Percentage of award distributed		50.00%

Stock-based Compensation Exp110

Stock-based Compensation Expense Fixed-Price Stock Options (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Shares
Outstanding Shares,Beginning Balance (in shares)	1,484,243
Granted (in shares)	313,803	222,939	297,924
Exercised (in shares)	(18,000)
Forfeited (in shares)	(98,519)
Expired (in shares)	(4,600)
Outstanding Shares, Ending Balance (in shares)	1,676,927	1,484,243
Exercisable, Ending Balance (in shares)	998,952
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Outstanding Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance (in dollars per share)	$ 50.30
Granted (in dollars per share)	55.74
Exercised (in dollars per share)	28.72
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	62.98
Expired (in dollars per share)	66.14
Outstanding Weighted-Average Exercise (in dollars per share)Price, Ending Balance	50.76	$ 50.30
Exercisable Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Ending Balance (in dollars per share)	$ 43.95
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)
Weighted-Averaged Remaining Contractual Term, Beginning Balance	6 years 1 month 6 days	6 years 6 months
Weighted-Averaged Remaining Contractual Term, Ending Balance	6 years 1 month 6 days	6 years 6 months
Exercisable Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Ending Balance	4 years 6 months
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Beginning Balance	$ 17,887
Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Ending Balance	14,152	$ 17,887
Exercisable Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Ending Balance	$ 14,048

Stock-based Compensation Exp111

Stock-based Compensation Expense Weighted-Average Assumptions used to Estimate Fair Value of Each Option Granted (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Dividend yield	1.80%	1.71%	1.58%
Volatility	32.92%	33.03%	33.55%
Average expected life (years)	6 years	6 years	6 years
Risk-free interest rate	2.17%	2.94%	2.18%
Fair value of options granted	$ 16.04	$ 19.56	$ 19.73

Stock-based Compensation Exp112

Stock-based Compensation Expense Activity in Performance Unit Awards (Details) - Performance Unit Awards	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015$ / sharesshares
Shares
Nonvested, beginning of period (in shares) | shares	456,018
Granted (in shares) | shares	214,610
Vested (in shares) | shares	(43,177)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares	(130,246)
Nonvested, end of period (in shares) | shares	497,205
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested, beginning of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 66.21
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	55.34
Vested (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	65.39
Forfeited (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	64.50
Nonvested, end of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 62.04

Stock-based Compensation Exp113

Stock-based Compensation Expense Activity in Non-Performance Based Restricted Stock Awards (Details) - Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015$ / sharesshares
Shares
Nonvested, beginning of period (in shares) | shares	105,288
Granted (in shares) | shares	61,156
Vested (in shares) | shares	(39,073)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares	(9,250)
Nonvested, end of period (in shares) | shares	118,121
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested, beginning of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 61.34
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	56.64
Vested (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	61.97
Forfeited (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	62.37
Nonvested, end of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 58.62

Accumulated Other Comprehens114

Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income Components and Activity in Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income Net of Deferred Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		$ (62,413)	$ 116,245		$ 85,264
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(362,910)	(160,849)		31,702
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income		2,144	(17,889)		(365)
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax		(360,766)	(178,738)		31,337
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		1,891	80		(356)
Ending balance		(421,288)	(62,413)		116,245
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		(52,264)	116,465		85,117
Ending balance		(463,372)	(52,264)		116,465
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(412,999)	(151,059)		31,704
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income		0	(17,750)	[1]	0
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax		(412,999)	(168,809)		31,704
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		1,891	80		(356)
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		0	487		989
Ending balance		(758)	0		487
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(774)	0		0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	[2]	16	(487)		(502)
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax		(758)	(487)		(502)
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		0	0		0
Net Investment Hedge
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		11,384	0		0
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		50,861	11,384		0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income		0	0		0
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax		50,861	11,384		0
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		0	0		0
Ending balance		62,245	11,384		0
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		0	0		0
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		0	(21,174)		0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	[3]	2,101	212		0
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax		2,101	(20,962)		0
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		(20,962)	0		0
Ending balance		(18,861)	(20,962)		0
Other Accumulated Comprehensive Income [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		(571)	(707)		(842)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		2	0		(2)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income		27	136		137
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax		29	136		135
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		0	0		0
Ending balance		$ (542)	$ (571)		$ (707)
[1]	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income for the year ended December 31, 2014 are included in (Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2014 and resulted from the release of cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments into earnings upon the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets which closed on September 1, 2014. See Note 3, “Divestitures.”
[2]	The pre-tax portion of amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income consists of amortization of prior service benefit, which is a component of pension and postretirement benefits cost (credit). See Note 15, “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits.”
[3]	The pre-tax portion of amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income is included in interest expense.

Accumulated Other Comprehens115

Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income Amount of Income Tax (Expense) Benefit Allocated to Component of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Equity [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation, Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax	$ (451,781)	$ (163,536)		$ 29,895
Foreign currency translation, Income tax benefit (expense)	38,782	(5,273)		1,809
Foreign currency translation, Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(412,999)	(168,809)		31,704
Pension and other postretirement benefits, Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax	(751)	(772)		(781)
Pension and other postretirement benefits, Income tax benefit (expense)	(7)	285		279
Pension and other postretirement benefits, Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	758	487		502
Net investment hedge, Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax	80,746	17,971	[1]	0
Net investment hedge, Income tax benefit (expense)	(29,885)	(6,587)		0
Net investment hedge, Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	50,861	11,384		0
Interest rate swap, Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax	3,336	(33,091)	[2]	0
Interest rate swap, Income tax benefit (expense)	(1,235)	12,129		0
Interest rate swap, Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	2,101	(20,962)		0
Other, Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax	19	217		214
Other, Income tax benefit (expense)	10	(81)		(79)
Other, Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	$ 29	$ 136		$ 135
[1]	Other comprehensive income, before tax, for the year ended December 31, 2014 includes $12.8 million related to the revaluation of our euro-denominated senior notes and a $5.2 million gain on the settlement of related foreign currency forward contracts, both of which were designated as a hedge of our net investment in foreign operations. See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” for additional information about these transactions.
[2]	Other comprehensive (loss), before tax, for the year ended December 31, 2014 includes a realized loss of ($33.4) million on the settlement of our forward starting interest rate swap which was designated and accounted for as a cash flow hedge under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging. See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” for additional information about this interest rate swap.

Accumulated Other Comprehens116

Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income Amount of Income Tax (Expense) Benefit Allocated to Component of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Footnote) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 18, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
1.875% Senior Notes
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, before tax		$ 50.9	$ 12.8
1.875% Senior Notes | Net Investment Hedge
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, before tax			12.8
Forward Contracts
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, before tax	$ 5.2
Forward Contracts | Net Investment Hedge
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, before tax			5.2
JP Morgan | Interest Rate Swap | Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, before tax			$ (33.4)

Income Taxes Components of Inco

Income Taxes Components of Income Tax Expense Benefit (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments:
Domestic	$ 8,594	$ 45,689	$ 351,731
Foreign	349,593	167,490	186,711
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	358,187	213,179	538,442
Current income tax expense:
Federal	85,245	36,708	53,953
State	71	3,209	2,195
Foreign	80,104	25,700	18,414
Total	165,420	65,617	74,562
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense:
Federal	(129,433)	(32,890)	69,817
State	(1,170)	(1,139)	2,416
Foreign	(5,695)	(13,104)	(12,350)
Total	(136,298)	(47,133)	59,883
Total income tax expense	$ 29,122	$ 18,484	$ 134,445

Income Taxes Significant Differ

Income Taxes Significant Differences Between U.S. Federal Statutory Rate and Effective Income Tax Rate (Detail)		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal statutory rate		35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State taxes, net of federal tax benefit		1.70%	0.20%	0.70%
Change in valuation allowance	[1]	4.70%	1.00%	(2.20%)
Impact of foreign earnings, net	[2]	(19.60%)	(24.80%)	(10.70%)
Subpart F income		6.80%	1.20%	0.40%
Deemed repatriation of foreign income	[3]	91.60%	0.00%	0.00%
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	[2],[3]	(99.60%)	(0.30%)	2.90%
Nondeductible transaction costs		1.80%	0.00%	0.00%
Depletion		(1.60%)	(2.40%)	(0.90%)
Revaluation of unrecognized tax benefits/reserve requirements	[4]	(11.30%)	(0.60%)	(0.10%)
Domestic manufacturing tax deduction		(0.90%)	(2.20%)	(0.90%)
Other items, net		(0.50%)	1.60%	0.80%
Effective income tax rate		8.10%	8.70%	25.00%
[1]	During 2013, our Avonmouth, U.K. legal entity was dissolved, therefore the corresponding valuation allowance and deferred tax assets were written off.
[2]	During 2015, 2014 and 2013, we received actual and deemed distributions of $1.4 billion, $12.6 million and $12.3 million, respectively, from various foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures, and realized an expense, net of foreign tax credits, of $350.2 million, $2.8 million and $2.4 million, respectively, related to the repatriation of these earnings, which impacted our effective tax rate. 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. This gave us a rate benefit of 7.1%, 12.4%, and 4.5% for 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.
[3]	In prior years, we designated the undistributed earnings of substantially all of our foreign subsidiaries as indefinitely invested. In 2015, we were not indefinitely invested in a portion of earnings from legacy Rockwood entities that were part of the repatriation planning, for which a deferred tax liability of $387.0 million was established in the opening balance sheet. This liability reversed upon the completion of the repatriation with $356.2 million impacting earnings and $30.8 million from foreign exchange differences. The reversal of this liability offsets the tax amount of $327.9 million from legacy Rockwood entities included in the deemed repatriation of foreign income.
[4]	During 2014, we released various tax reserves primarily related to the expiration of the applicable U.S. federal statute of limitations for 2009 through 2010 which provided a net benefit of approximately $2.5 million. In 2015, the main impact is from the release of reserves on the close of a U.S. federal audit, and lapse of statute of limitations. These releases provided a net benefit of approximately $41 million.

Income Taxes Significant Dif119

Income Taxes Significant Differences Between U.S. Federal Statutory Rate and Effective Income Tax Rate Footnote (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions		3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jan. 12, 2015
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items
Foreign earnings repatriated			$ 1,400	$ 12.6	$ 12.3
Effective income tax rate reconciliation, repatriation of foreign earnings, amount			$ 350.2	$ 2.8	$ 2.4
Effective income tax rate reconciliation, foreign income tax rate differential, percent	[1]		19.60%	24.80%	10.70%
Net benefit from release of tax reserves		$ 45	$ 41	$ 2.5
Jordan Bromine Company Limited
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items
Effective income tax rate reconciliation, foreign income tax rate differential, percent			7.10%	12.40%	4.50%
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items
Foreign earnings repatriated			$ 111
Effective income tax rate reconciliation, repatriation of foreign earnings, amount			327.9
Deferred tax liabilities, undistributed foreign earnings						$ 387
Reversal of deferred tax liability, undistributed foreign earnings, impact on earnings			356.2
Reversal of deferred tax liability, undistributed foreign earnings, foreign exchange			$ 30.8
[1]	During 2015, 2014 and 2013, we received actual and deemed distributions of $1.4 billion, $12.6 million and $12.3 million, respectively, from various foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures, and realized an expense, net of foreign tax credits, of $350.2 million, $2.8 million and $2.4 million, respectively, related to the repatriation of these earnings, which impacted our effective tax rate. 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. This gave us a rate benefit of 7.1%, 12.4%, and 4.5% for 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively.

Income Taxes Deferred Income Ta

Income Taxes Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities Recorded on Consolidated Balance Sheets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Deferred tax assets:
Accrued employee benefits		$ 28,167	$ 20,834
Accrued expenses		33,048	2,379
Operating loss carryovers		131,985	82,017
Pensions		111,059	79,113
Intangibles		0	5,732
Tax credit carryovers		2,555	34,469
Other		32,725	20,227
Gross deferred tax assets		339,539	244,771
Valuation allowance		(85,370)	(30,768)	$ (33,757)	$ (49,562)
Deferred tax assets		254,169	214,003
Deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation		(378,669)	(190,280)
Intangibles		(488,855)	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments		0	(4,752)
Other		(46,937)	(18,420)
Deferred tax liabilities		(914,461)	(213,452)
Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets			551
Current deferred tax assets	[1]	0	1,801
Current deferred tax liabilities		0	(6,806)
Noncurrent deferred tax assets	[2]	76,025	62,440
Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities		(736,317)	(56,884)
Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets			$ 551
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net		$ (660,292)
[1]	See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.”
[2]	See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.”

Income Taxes Changes in Balance

Income Taxes Changes in Balance of Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ (30,768)	$ (33,757)	$ (49,562)
Additions	(61,122)	(1,895)	(4,359)
Deductions	6,520	4,884	20,164
Ending Balance	$ (85,370)	$ (30,768)	$ (33,757)

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Tax credit carryovers		$ 2,555	$ 34,469
Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset		85,370	30,768	$ 33,757	$ 49,562
Cumulative undistributed earnings not taxed domestically		1,100,000
Liabilities related to uncertain tax position	[1]	101,677	25,340
Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties and interest accrued		6,500	300
Assets offsetting unrecognized tax benefits		50,900	22,100
Unrecognized tax benefits net of offsetting assets		44,000	2,900
Unrecognized tax benefits		95,715	$ 24,969	$ 29,143	$ 28,398
Maximum decrease in the liability related to uncertain tax positions		3,300
Domestic Country
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Tax credit carryovers		3,000
Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset		300
Net operating loss carryovers		529,900
Operating loss carryover, valuation allowance		507,900
Capital loss carryovers		16,900
Capital loss carryover, valuation allowance		15,800
State and Local Jurisdiction
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Capital loss carryovers		55,600
Capital loss carryover, valuation allowance		55,600
Foreign Country
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset		900
Net operating loss carryovers		393,600
Operating loss carryover, valuation allowance		$ 177,500
[1]	See Note 20, “Income Taxes.”

Income Taxes Reconciliation of

Income Taxes Reconciliation of Total Gross Liability Related to Uncertain Tax Positions (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 24,969	$ 29,143	$ 28,398
Acquisition of Rockwood	124,758	0	0
Additions for tax positions related to prior years	4,329	0	0
Reductions for tax positions related to prior years	(46,211)	(214)	(348)
Additions for tax positions related to current year	202	2,232	2,061
Lapses in statutes of limitations/settlements	(6,736)	(5,057)	(473)
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(5,596)	(1,135)	(495)
Ending Balance	$ 95,715	$ 24,969	$ 29,143

Restructuring and Other Restruc

Restructuring and Other Restructuring and Other Reported in Consolidated Statements of Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2015

[3]

Sep. 30, 2015

Jun. 30, 2015

[3]

Mar. 31, 2015

[3]

Dec. 31, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

[3]

Jun. 30, 2014

[3]

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]

Severance costs

$ 33,400

$ 0

$ 0

$ 33,361

[1]

Other restructuring costs, net

0

2,426

[2]

0

Restructuring and other, net

$ 0

$ (6,804)

[3]

$ 0

$ 0

$ 5,322

[3]

$ 293

$ 3,332

$ 17,000

[3]

(6,804)

25,947

33,361

Contract Termination

Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]

Restructuring items related to exit of business or contract

$ 6,500

$ 14,000

0

23,521

[4]

0

Phosphorus Flame Retardant Business Exit

Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]

Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business

$ (6,800)

$ (6,804)

[5]

$ 0

[5]

$ 0

[5]

[1]

In connection with an announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014, in the fourth quarter of 2013 we initiated a workforce reduction plan which resulted 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 complete.

[2]

The amount for 2014 mainly consists of $3.3 million ($2.1 million after income taxes) recorded in the second quarter for certain multi-product facility project costs that we do not expect to recover in future periods, net of other credits recorded in the fourth quarter.

[3]

See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.”

[4]

In 2014, we initiated action to reduce high cost supply capacity of certain aluminum alkyl products, primarily through the termination of a third party manufacturing contract. Based on the contract termination, we estimated costs of approximately $14.0 million ($9.3 million after income taxes) in the first quarter and $6.5 million ($4.3 million after income taxes) in the fourth quarter for contract termination and volume commitments. Additionally, in the first quarter of 2014 we recorded an impairment charge of $3.0 million ($1.9 million after income taxes) for certain capital project costs also related to aluminum alkyls capacity which we do not expect to recover.

[5]

In the third quarter of 2015, a gain of $6.8 million ($5.4 million after income taxes) was recognized upon the sale of land in Avonmouth, U.K., which was utilized by the phosphorus flame retardants business we exited in 2012.

Restructuring and Other Rest125

Restructuring and Other Restructuring and Other Reported in Consolidated Statements of Income (Footnote) (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended					12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)employee	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)		Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)		Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Number of employee reduction | employee					230
Workforce reduction charges					$ 33,400	$ 0		$ 0		$ 33,361	[1]
Workforce reduction charges net of tax					$ 21,900
Impairment of ongoing project			$ 3,300
Impairment of ongoing project, net of tax			$ 2,100
Contract Termination
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring items related to exit of business or contract		$ 6,500		$ 14,000		0		23,521	[2]	0
Restructuring items related to exit of business or contract, net of tax		$ 4,300		9,300
Asset impairment charges				3,000
Asset impairment charges, net of tax				$ 1,900
Phosphorus Flame Retardant Business Exit
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business	$ 6,800					$ 6,804	[3]	$ 0	[3]	$ 0	[3]
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business, net of tax	$ 5,400
[1]	In connection with an announced realignment of our operating segments effective January 1, 2014, in the fourth quarter of 2013 we initiated a workforce reduction plan which resulted 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 complete.
[2]	In 2014, we initiated action to reduce high cost supply capacity of certain aluminum alkyl products, primarily through the termination of a third party manufacturing contract. Based on the contract termination, we estimated costs of approximately $14.0 million ($9.3 million after income taxes) in the first quarter and $6.5 million ($4.3 million after income taxes) in the fourth quarter for contract termination and volume commitments. Additionally, in the first quarter of 2014 we recorded an impairment charge of $3.0 million ($1.9 million after income taxes) for certain capital project costs also related to aluminum alkyls capacity which we do not expect to recover.
[3]	In the third quarter of 2015, a gain of $6.8 million ($5.4 million after income taxes) was recognized upon the sale of land in Avonmouth, U.K., which was utilized by the phosphorus flame retardants business we exited in 2012.

Fair Value of Financial Inst126

Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Long-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Total long-term debt	$ 3,852,019	$ 2,934,131
Total long-term debt, fair value	$ 3,810,981	$ 2,994,935

Fair Value of Financial Inst127

Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Details) - Forward Contracts - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount	$ 217.7	$ 479.9
Accrued liabilities
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Liability at Fair Value	0.3
Other accounts receivable
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Fair value of foreign currency forward contracts, assets		0.6
Other income (expenses), net
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Recognized gains (losses) of foreign currency forward contracts	(38.5)	(17.8)	$ (1.1)
Other, net
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Change in the fair value of foreign currency forward contracts	38.5	17.8	1.1
Cash settlements	$ (37.6)	$ (18.3)	$ (1.8)

Fair Value Measurement Financia

Fair Value Measurement Financial Assets and Liabilities Accounted for at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments under executive deferred compensation plan	[1]	$ 21,631		$ 22,168
Private equity securities	[2]	2,626		1,806
Foreign currency forward contracts, assets	[3]			631
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan	[1]	21,631		22,168
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities	[3]	250
Total Pension Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan fair value of plan assets	[4]	690,787		607,694
Other Postretirement Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan fair value of plan assets		3,292	[4]	4,439	[3]	$ 5,620
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	[1]	21,631		22,168
Private equity securities	[2]	31		21
Foreign currency forward contracts, assets				0
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan	[1]	21,631		22,168
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities		0
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	[4]	500,996		513,871
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Other Postretirement Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan fair value of plan assets		0		0
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments under executive deferred compensation plan		0		0
Private equity securities		0		0
Foreign currency forward contracts, assets	[3]			631
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan		0		0
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities	[3]	250
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	[4]	106,664		13,083
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Other Postretirement Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan fair value of plan assets		3,292	[4]	4,439	[3]
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments under executive deferred compensation plan		0		0
Private equity securities		2,595	[2]	1,785
Foreign currency forward contracts, assets				0
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan		0		0
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities		0
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		83,127	[4]	80,740	[4]	$ 123,599
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Other Postretirement Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan fair value of plan assets		$ 0		$ 0
[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 income (expenses), net, in our consolidated statements of 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 foreign currency forward contracts. Unless otherwise noted, these derivative financial instruments are not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging. 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 15 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets, including the reconciliations of the plans’ Level 3 assets.

Fair Value Measurement Level 3

Fair Value Measurement Level 3 Reconciliation (Details) - Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) - Private Equity Funds - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 1,785	$ 750
Total unrealized gains included in earnings relating to assets still held at the reporting date	810	35
Purchases	0	1,000
Ending balance	$ 2,595	$ 1,785

Related Party Transactions (Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) - Unconsolidated Affiliates - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Sales to unconsolidated affiliates	$ 25,903	$ 45,415	$ 29,420
Purchases from unconsolidated affiliates	$ 115,697	$ 64,631	$ 57,022

Segment and Geographic Area 131

Segment and Geographic Area Information - Additional Information (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments	3

Segment and Geographic Area 132

Segment and Geographic Area Information Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales		$ 930,353		$ 905,093		$ 931,485		$ 884,404		$ 598,566		$ 642,418		$ 604,721		$ 599,843		$ 3,651,335	$ 2,445,548		$ 2,394,270
Adjusted EBITDA																		959,322	562,155		557,551
Depreciation and amortization																		(260,076)	(103,572)		(107,370)
Restructuring and other, net		0	[1]	6,804	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]	(5,322)	[1]	(293)	[1]	(3,332)	[1]	(17,000)	[1]	6,804	(25,947)		(33,361)
Acquisition and integration related costs		(19,609)	[2]	(42,798)	[2]	(24,166)	[2]	(59,523)	[2]	(15,054)	[2]	(10,261)	[2]	(4,843)	[2]	0	[2]	(146,096)	(30,158)		0
Interest and financing expenses																		(132,722)	(41,358)		(31,559)
Income tax expense																		(29,122)	(18,484)		(134,445)
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax)										(1,058)	[3]	(6,679)	[3]	(60,025)	[3]	(1,769)	[3]	0	(69,531)		4,108
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation		$ 174,252		$ 65,392		$ 52,147		$ 43,115		$ (18,508)		$ 72,794		$ 22,447		$ 56,583		334,906	133,316		413,171
Performance Chemicals
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales																		1,610,319	1,121,645		1,141,890
All Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales																		471,434	471,764		477,173
Adjusted EBITDA																		53,993	73,973		71,691
Depreciation and amortization																		(18,183)	(13,478)		(13,323)
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales																		15,415	0		0
Adjusted EBITDA																		(29,814)	(74,875)		(69,240)
Depreciation and amortization																		(8,703)	(2,552)		(2,188)
Operating Segments | Performance Chemicals
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales																		1,610,319	1,121,645		1,141,890
Adjusted EBITDA																		535,520	306,572		364,712
Depreciation and amortization																		(120,248)	(51,707)		(46,225)
Operating Segments | Refining Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales																		729,261	852,139		775,207
Adjusted EBITDA																		197,595	256,485		190,388
Depreciation and amortization																		(34,039)	(32,670)		(33,580)
Operating Segments | Chemetall Surface Treatment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales																		824,906	0		0
Adjusted EBITDA																		202,028	0		0
Depreciation and amortization																		(78,903)	0		0
Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		959,322	562,155		557,551
Depreciation and amortization																		(260,076)	(100,407)	[4]	(95,316)	[4]
Utilization of inventory markup	[5]																	(103,036)
Restructuring and other, net	[6]																	6,804	(25,947)		(33,361)
Acquisition and integration related costs	[7]																	(146,096)	(30,158)
Interest and financing expenses																		(132,722)	(41,358)		(31,559)
Income tax expense																		(29,122)	(18,484)		(134,445)
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax)																			(69,531)		4,108
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		46,244	(125,462)		146,193
Other	[8]																	(6,412)	(17,492)
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		334,906	133,316		413,171
Continuing Operations | All Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		53,993	73,973		71,691
Depreciation and amortization																		(18,183)	(13,478)	[4]	(13,323)	[4]
Utilization of inventory markup	[5]																	(3,029)
Restructuring and other, net	[6]																	0	0		0
Acquisition and integration related costs	[7]																	0	0
Interest and financing expenses																		0	0		0
Income tax expense																		0	0		0
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax)																			0		0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		0	0		0
Other	[8]																	0	0
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		32,781	60,495		58,368
Continuing Operations | Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		(29,814)	(74,875)		(69,240)
Depreciation and amortization																		(8,703)	(2,552)	[4]	(2,188)	[4]
Utilization of inventory markup	[5]																	0
Restructuring and other, net	[6]																	6,804	(25,947)		(33,361)
Acquisition and integration related costs	[7]																	(146,096)	(30,158)
Interest and financing expenses																		(132,722)	(41,358)		(31,559)
Income tax expense																		(29,122)	(18,484)		(134,445)
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax)																			(69,531)		4,108
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		46,244	(125,462)		146,193
Other	[8]																	(4,441)	(17,492)
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		(297,850)	(405,859)		(120,492)
Continuing Operations | Operating Segments | Performance Chemicals
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		535,520	306,572		364,712
Depreciation and amortization																		(120,248)	(51,707)	[4]	(46,225)	[4]
Utilization of inventory markup	[5]																	(79,977)
Restructuring and other, net	[6]																	0	0		0
Acquisition and integration related costs	[7]																	0	0
Interest and financing expenses																		0	0		0
Income tax expense																		0	0		0
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax)																			0		0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		0	0		0
Other	[8]																	0	0
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		335,295	254,865		318,487
Continuing Operations | Operating Segments | Refining Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		197,595	256,485		190,388
Depreciation and amortization																		(34,039)	(32,670)	[4]	(33,580)	[4]
Utilization of inventory markup	[5]																	0
Restructuring and other, net	[6]																	0	0		0
Acquisition and integration related costs	[7]																	0	0
Interest and financing expenses																		0	0		0
Income tax expense																		0	0		0
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax)																			0		0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		0	0		0
Other	[8]																	(1,971)	0
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		161,585	223,815		156,808
Continuing Operations | Operating Segments | Chemetall Surface Treatment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		202,028	0		0
Depreciation and amortization																		(78,903)	0	[4]	0	[4]
Utilization of inventory markup	[5]																	(20,030)
Restructuring and other, net	[6]																	0	0		0
Acquisition and integration related costs	[7]																	0	0
Interest and financing expenses																		0	0		0
Income tax expense																		0	0		0
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax)																			0		0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		0	0		0
Other	[8]																	0	0
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		103,095	0		0
Continuing Operations | Operating Segments | Reportable Segments Total
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		935,143	563,057		555,100
Depreciation and amortization																		(233,190)	(84,377)	[4]	(79,805)	[4]
Utilization of inventory markup	[5]																	(100,007)
Restructuring and other, net	[6]																	0	0		0
Acquisition and integration related costs	[7]																	0	0
Interest and financing expenses																		0	0		0
Income tax expense																		0	0		0
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax)																			0		0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		0	0		0
Other	[8]																	(1,971)	0
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		$ 599,975	$ 478,680		$ 475,295
[1]	See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.”
[2]	See Note 2, “Acquisitions.”
[3]	Included in Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2014 is ($65.7) million related to the loss on the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets, the majority of which was recorded in the second quarter. See Note 3, “Divestitures.”
[4]	Excludes discontinued operations.
[5]	In connection with the acquisition of Rockwood, the Company valued Rockwood’s existing inventory at fair value as of the Acquisition Closing Date, which resulted in a markup of the underlying net book value of the inventory totaling approximately $103 million. The inventory markup was expensed over the estimated remaining selling period. For the year ended December 31, 2015, $75.9 million was included in Cost of goods sold, and Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments was reduced by $27.1 million related to the utilization of the inventory markup.
[6]	See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.”
[7]	See Note 2, “Acquisitions.”
[8]	For the year ended December 31, 2015, Refining Solutions includes an impairment charge of approximately $2.0 million related to our unconsolidated investment in Fábrica Carioca de Catalisadores SA. For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, Corporate includes approximately $4.4 million and $17.5 million, respectively, of financing-related fees expensed in connection with the acquisition of Rockwood.

Segment and Geographic Area 133

Segment and Geographic Area Information Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments (Footnote) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Jan. 12, 2015
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Inventory markup			$ 103
Utilization of inventory markup	$ 103
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Cost of Sales
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Utilization of inventory markup	75.9
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Equity in Net Income of Unconsolidated Investments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Utilization of inventory markup	27.1
Refining Solutions | Fabrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A.
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Unconsolidated investment impairment charges	2
Corporate | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Acquisition financing-related fees	$ 4.4	$ 17.5

Segment and Geographic Area 134

Segment and Geographic Area Information Identifiable Assets and Goodwill by Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets		$ 9,615,014	$ 5,223,103	$ 3,584,797
Goodwill		2,893,811	243,262	284,203
Performance Chemicals
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill		1,287,824	42,016	42,025
Refining Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill		172,728	192,657	218,382
Chemetall Surface Treatment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill		1,433,259	0	0
All Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets		517,695	268,555	468,147
Goodwill		0	8,589	23,796
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	[1]	593,655	2,768,941	750,859
Operating Segments | Performance Chemicals
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets		4,358,598	1,085,246	1,148,478
Goodwill		1,287,824	42,016	42,025
Operating Segments | Refining Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets		937,445	1,100,361	1,217,313
Goodwill		172,728	192,657	218,382
Operating Segments | Chemetall Surface Treatment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets		3,207,621	0	0
Goodwill		$ 1,433,259	$ 0	$ 0
[1]	As of December 31, 2014, Corporate included net proceeds received from the issuance of the 2014 Senior Notes, which, together with borrowings from our Commercial Paper Notes, August 2014 Term Loan Agreement and Cash Bridge Facility, were used to finance the cash portion of the Merger Consideration, pay related fees and expenses and repay our senior notes which matured on February 1, 2015. See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” and Note 2, “Acquisitions” for additional details about these transactions.

Segment and Geographic Area 135

Segment and Geographic Area Information Depreciation and Amortization and Capital Expenditures by Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	$ 260,076	$ 103,572	$ 107,370
Capital expenditures	227,649	110,576	155,346
All Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	18,183	13,478	13,323
Capital expenditures	13,054	9,053	18,831
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	8,703	2,552	2,188
Capital expenditures	2,683	24	514
Operating Segments | Performance Chemicals
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	120,248	51,707	46,225
Capital expenditures	159,338	52,280	119,500
Operating Segments | Refining Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	34,039	32,670	33,580
Capital expenditures	28,836	49,219	16,501
Operating Segments | Chemetall Surface Treatment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	78,903	0	0
Capital expenditures	23,738	0	0
Discontinued Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	$ 0	$ 3,165	$ 12,054

Segment and Geographic Area 136

Segment and Geographic Area Information Net Sales by Geographic Area (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales		$ 930,353	$ 905,093	$ 931,485	$ 884,404	$ 598,566	$ 642,418	$ 604,721	$ 599,843	$ 3,651,335	$ 2,445,548	$ 2,394,270
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales										1,118,847	884,373	933,182
Foreign
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	[1]									$ 2,532,488	$ 1,561,175	$ 1,461,088
[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.

Segment and Geographic Area 137

Segment and Geographic Area Information Long-Lived Assets by Geographic Area (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	$ 2,919,354	$ 1,405,423	$ 1,548,577
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	833,238	698,863	748,719
Chile
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	916,965	0	0
Netherlands
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	157,644	167,965	193,775
Jordan
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	230,460	227,805	227,818
Australia
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	282,552	0	0
Brazil
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	45,847	59,474	78,078
Germany
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	189,895	75,813	86,175
China
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	29,780	5,310	41,858
France
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	50,991	37,347	34,523
Korea
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	72,685	80,362	86,827
United Kingdom
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	5,320	3,665	3,665
Other foreign countries
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	$ 103,977	$ 48,819	$ 47,139

Segment and Geographic Area 138

Segment and Geographic Area Information Net Sales to External Customers by Product Category (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 930,353	$ 905,093	$ 931,485	$ 884,404	$ 598,566	$ 642,418	$ 604,721	$ 599,843	$ 3,651,335	$ 2,445,548	$ 2,394,270
Performance Chemicals
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									1,610,319	1,121,645	1,141,890
Performance Chemicals | Bromine
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									775,729	808,857	856,298
Performance Chemicals | Lithium
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									508,844	0	0
Performance Chemicals | Performance Catalyst Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									325,746	312,788	285,592
Refining Solutions | Refining Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									729,261	852,139	775,207
Chemetall Surface Treatment | Chemetall Surface Treatment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 824,906	$ 0	$ 0

Quarterly Financial Summary 139

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Sep. 30, 2014		Jun. 30, 2014		Mar. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 930,353		$ 905,093		$ 931,485		$ 884,404		$ 598,566		$ 642,418		$ 604,721		$ 599,843		$ 3,651,335	$ 2,445,548	$ 2,394,270
Gross profit	325,630		312,210		300,566		258,466		162,440		205,446		207,363		195,599		1,196,872	770,848	850,471
Restructuring and other, net	0	[1]	(6,804)	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]	5,322	[1]	293	[1]	3,332	[1]	17,000	[1]	(6,804)	25,947	33,361
Acquisition and integration related costs	19,609	[2]	42,798	[2]	24,166	[2]	59,523	[2]	15,054	[2]	10,261	[2]	4,843	[2]	0	[2]	146,096	30,158	0
Net income (loss) from continuing operations									(12,990)		88,019		89,404		66,004		360,064	230,437	435,726
(Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax)									(1,058)	[3]	(6,679)	[3]	(60,025)	[3]	(1,769)	[3]	0	(69,531)	4,108
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests									(4,460)		(8,546)		(6,932)		(7,652)		(25,158)	(27,590)	(26,663)
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$ 174,252		$ 65,392		$ 52,147		$ 43,115		$ (18,508)		$ 72,794		$ 22,447		$ 56,583		$ 334,906	$ 133,316	$ 413,171
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)									$ (0.22)		$ 1.02		$ 1.05		$ 0.73		$ 3.01	$ 2.57	$ 4.88
Basic earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)									(0.02)		(0.09)		(0.76)		(0.02)		0	(0.88)	0.05
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 1.55		$ 0.58		$ 0.46		$ 0.40		$ (0.24)		$ 0.93		$ 0.29		$ 0.71		$ 3.01	$ 1.69	$ 4.93
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—basic (in shares)	112,207		112,202		112,189		108,130		78,144		78,244		78,662		79,735		111,182	78,696	83,839
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)									$ (0.22)		$ 1.01		$ 1.04		$ 0.73		$ 3	$ 2.57	$ 4.85
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)									(0.02)		(0.08)		(0.76)		(0.02)		0	(0.88)	0.05
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 1.55		$ 0.58		$ 0.46		$ 0.40		$ (0.24)		$ 0.93		$ 0.28		$ 0.71		$ 3	$ 1.69	$ 4.90
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—diluted (in shares)	112,608		112,544		112,607		108,464		78,545		78,659		79,091		80,112		111,556	79,102	84,322
[1]	See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.”
[2]	See Note 2, “Acquisitions.”
[3]	Included in Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2014 is ($65.7) million related to the loss on the sale of our antioxidant, ibuprofen and propofol businesses and assets, the majority of which was recorded in the second quarter. See Note 3, “Divestitures.”

Quarterly Financial Summary 140

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) (Footnote) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Net benefit from release of tax reserves	$ 45	$ 41	$ 2.5
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets
Loss on disposal of businesses, net of tax			$ (65.7)

Quarterly Financial Summary 141

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Actuarial loss (gain)	$ (38.9)	$ 112.6	$ 2.8	$ 15.4
Actuarial loss (gain), net of income tax	$ (27.8)	$ 71.8	$ 1.8	$ 9.8