Albemarle (ALB) 10-K 28 Feb 17 2016 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Feb. 20, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Document And Entity Information [Abstract] [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
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		112,566,316
Entity Public Float			$ 8.9

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCO

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 2,677,203	$ 2,826,429	$ 2,445,548
Cost of goods sold	1,706,627	1,966,196	1,674,700
Gross profit	970,576	860,233	770,848
Selling, general and administrative expenses	380,464	300,440	355,135
Research and development expenses	80,475	89,187	88,310
Restructuring and other, net	0	(6,804)	25,947
Gain on sales of businesses, net	(122,298)	0	0
Acquisition and integration related costs	57,384	132,299	30,158
Operating profit	574,551	345,111	271,298
Interest and financing expenses	(65,181)	(81,650)	(41,358)
Other income (expenses), net	5,894	47,283	(16,761)
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	515,264	310,744	213,179
Income tax expense	96,263	11,134	18,484
Income from continuing operations before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	419,001	299,610	194,695
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)	59,637	27,978	35,742
Net income from continuing operations	478,638	327,588	230,437
Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)	202,131	32,476	(69,531)
Net income	680,769	360,064	160,906
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(37,094)	(25,158)	(27,590)
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$ 643,675	$ 334,906	$ 133,316
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 3.93	$ 2.72	$ 2.57
Basic earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	1.80	0.29	(0.88)
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)	5.73	3.01	1.69
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	3.9	2.71	2.57
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	1.78	0.29	(0.88)
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 5.68	$ 3	$ 1.69
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—basic (in shares)	112,379	111,182	78,696
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—diluted (in shares)	113,239	111,556	79,102
Cash dividends declared per share of common stock (in dollars per share)	$ 1.22	$ 1.16	$ 1.10

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 680,769	$ 360,064	$ 160,906
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation	(20,825)	(412,970)	(168,673)
Pension and postretirement benefits	834	(758)	(487)
Net investment hedge	26,133	50,861	11,384
Interest rate swap	2,116	2,101	(20,962)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	8,258	(360,766)	(178,738)
Comprehensive income (loss)	689,027	(702)	(17,832)
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(36,477)	(23,267)	(27,510)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$ 652,550	$ (23,969)	$ (45,342)

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 2,269,756	$ 213,734
Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts (2016—$15,312; 2015—$3,390)	486,035	397,912
Other accounts receivable	41,985	74,989	[1]
Inventories	450,263	439,513	[2]
Other current assets	58,579	62,922	[3]
Assets held for sale	0	641,932
Total current assets	3,306,618	1,831,002
Property, plant and equipment, at cost	3,910,522	3,700,472	[4]
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	1,550,382	1,379,377
Net property, plant and equipment	2,360,140	2,321,095
Investments	457,533	435,584
Noncurrent assets held for sale	0	2,971,455
Other assets	142,320	194,398	[5]
Goodwill	1,540,032	1,460,552	[6],[7]
Other intangibles, net of amortization	354,564	383,868	[8]
Total assets	8,161,207	9,597,954
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	281,874	239,572
Accrued expenses	322,165	313,259	[9]
Current portion of long-term debt	247,544	674,994
Dividends payable	34,104	32,306
Liabilities held for sale	0	329,598
Income taxes payable	254,416	26,956
Total current liabilities	1,140,103	1,616,685
Long-term debt	2,121,718	3,142,163
Postretirement benefits	50,538	49,647
Pension benefits	298,695	299,983
Noncurrent liabilities held for sale	0	464,207
Other noncurrent liabilities	194,810	239,104	[10]
Deferred income taxes	412,739	384,852
Commitments and contingencies
Albemarle Corporation shareholders’ equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value (authorized 150,000 shares), issued and outstanding — 112,524 in 2016 and 112,219 in 2015	1,125	1,122
Additional paid-in capital	2,084,418	2,059,151
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(412,412)	(421,288)
Retained earnings	2,121,931	1,615,407
Total Albemarle Corporation shareholders’ equity	3,795,062	3,254,392
Noncontrolling interests	147,542	146,921
Total equity	3,942,604	3,401,313
Total liabilities and equity	$ 8,161,207	$ 9,597,954
[1]	As of December 31, 2015, $8.3 million of Other accounts receivable were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[2]	As of December 31, 2015, $162.8 million of Inventories were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[3]	As of December 31, 2015, $11.9 million of Other current assets were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[4]	As of December 31, 2015, $424.1 million of Property, plant and equipment, at cost, was classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[5]	As of December 31, 2015, $8.6 million of Other Assets were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[6]	As of December 31, 2015, $1.5 billion of Goodwill was classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[7]	The December 31, 2015 and 2014 balances have been recast to reflect a change in segments. See Note 25, “Segment and Geographic Area Information,” for further details.
[8]	As of December 31, 2015, $1.4 billion of Other intangibles, net of amortization were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3 “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[9]	As of December 31, 2015, $112.1 million of Accrued expenses were classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[10]	As of December 31, 2015, $20.2 million of Other noncurrent liabilities were classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Trade accounts receivables, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 15,312	$ 3,390
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	112,524,000	112,219,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	112,524,000	112,219,000

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, 2013		80,052,842
Beginning 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
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						4,843
Purchase of noncontrolling interest	(4,655)						(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
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	680,769				643,675	643,675	37,094
Other comprehensive income (loss)	8,258			8,876		8,876	(618)
Cash dividends declared	(173,006)				(137,151)	(137,151)	(35,855)
Stock-based compensation and other	$ 16,251		16,251			16,251
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	212,343	212,343
Exercise of stock options	$ 9,402	$ 2	9,400			9,402
Tax benefit related to stock plans	1,811		1,811			1,811
Issuance of common stock, net (in shares)		131,596
Issuance of common stock, net	0	$ 1	(1)			0
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances (in shares)		(39,500)
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances	(2,194)	$ 0	(2,194)			(2,194)
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2016		112,523,790
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 3,942,604	$ 1,125	$ 2,084,418	$ (412,412)	$ 2,121,931	$ 3,795,062	$ 147,542

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	$ 213,734	$ 2,489,768	$ 477,239
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	680,769	360,064	160,906
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	226,169	260,076	103,572
(Gain) loss associated with restructuring and other	0	(6,804)	6,333
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net	(510,278)	0	85,515
Stock-based compensation	17,031	15,188	14,267
Excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements	(2,121)	(121)	(826)
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)	(61,534)	(30,999)	(35,742)
Dividends received from unconsolidated investments and nonmarketable securities	43,759	59,912	40,688
Pension and postretirement expense (benefit)	41,546	(38,817)	133,681
Pension and postretirement contributions	(20,068)	(21,613)	(13,916)
Unrealized gain on investments in marketable securities	(3,655)	(1,239)	(825)
Deferred income taxes	21,121	(136,298)	(64,947)
Changes in current assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and divestitures:
(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable	(42,816)	(8,788)	36,221
Decrease (increase) in inventories	25,974	27,649	(6,486)
Decrease in other current assets excluding deferred income taxes	1,808	12,756	5,809
Increase in accounts payable	43,953	23,745	28,296
Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses and income taxes payable	210,276	(96,896)	(6,680)
Other, net	61,469	(57,126)	6,743
Net cash provided by operating activities	733,403	360,689	492,609
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisition of Rockwood, net of cash acquired	0	(2,051,645)	0
Other acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(126,747)	(48,845)	0
Cash payments related to acquisitions and other	(81,987)	0	0
Capital expenditures	(196,654)	(227,649)	(110,576)
Decrease in restricted cash	0	57,550	0
Cash proceeds from divestitures, net	3,325,571	8,883	104,718
Return of capital from unconsolidated investment	0	98,000	0
Payment for settlement of interest rate swap	0	0	(33,425)
Sales of marketable securities, net	305	998	649
Repayments from (long-term advances to) joint ventures	0	2,156	(7,499)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	2,920,488	(2,160,552)	(46,133)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes	0	0	1,888,197
Proceeds from borrowings of other long-term debt	0	2,250,000	0
Repayments of long-term debt	(1,252,302)	(2,626,241)	(6,017)
Other (repayments) borrowings, net	(163,721)	54,625	(5,825)
Dividends paid to shareholders	(135,353)	(119,302)	(84,102)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests	(35,855)	(23,286)	(15,535)
Purchase of noncontrolling interest	0	(4,784)	0
Repurchases of common stock	0	0	(150,000)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	9,401	517	2,713
Excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements	2,121	121	826
Withholding taxes paid on stock-based compensation award distributions	(2,194)	(1,549)	(3,284)
Debt financing costs	0	(4,544)	(17,644)
Other	0	(3,882)	0
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	(1,577,903)	(478,325)	1,609,329
Net effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents	(19,966)	2,154	(43,276)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	2,056,022	(2,276,034)	2,012,529
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$ 2,269,756	$ 213,734	$ 2,489,768

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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 its consolidated subsidiaries. For entities that we control and are the primary beneficiary, but own less than 100%, we record the minority ownership as noncontrolling interest. 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 Effective January 1, 2016, we realigned our organizational structure to split our former Performance Chemicals reportable segment into two reportable segments: (1) Lithium and Advanced Materials and (2) Bromine Specialties. As a result, our three reportable segments include: Lithium and Advanced Materials, Bromine Specialties and Refining Solutions. 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 December 14, 2016, the Company closed the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business to BASF SE. In accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, the Company began accounting for this business as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income and excluded the business from segment results for all periods presented. Related assets and liabilities are classified as held for sale as of December 31, 2015 in accordance with accounting standards for reporting discontinued operations. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. 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. 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 primarily in Refining Solutions. 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 generally 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. We evaluate our equity method investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of such investments may be impaired. If a decline in the value of an equity method investment is determined to be other than temporary, a loss is recorded in earnings in the current period. Our Saudi Organometallic Chemicals Company (“SOCC”) joint venture in Saudi Arabia, included in our Lithium and Advanced Materials segment, is emerging from the start-up phase and experienced a small net loss as of December 31, 2016, indicating the carrying value potentially may be impaired. As a result, we assessed the recoverability of the investment and related balances in this venture as of December 31, 2016. As of December 31, 2016, the carrying amount of our equity interest in SOCC was $7.5 million and we had loans receivable from this venture that totaled $30.0 million . Based on our assessment, we expect to recover the carrying amount of our equity investment and related balances, and concluded that no other-than-temporary impairment exists as of December 31, 2016. In order to fully recover our investment and related balances, we and our venture partner are actively developing strategies to reduce costs and increase volumes at the venture, which would improve the financial performance of the investment. Certain mutual fund investments are accounted for as trading equities and are marked-to-market on a periodic 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 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, 2016 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, 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 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, 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 monthly basis. The market-related value of assets equals the actual market value as of the date of measurement. During 2016 , 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 2016 , 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, 2016 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 United Kingdom (“U.K.”), 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 U.K. 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 2015, the Society of Actuaries (“SOA”) published an updated Mortality Improvement Scale, MP-2015. The updated improvement scale incorporated two additional years of mortality data and reflected a trend toward somewhat smaller increases 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. In October 2016, the SOA published an updated Mortality Improvement Scale, MP-2016. The updated improvement scale incorporates three additional years of mortality data (2012 – 2014) and a modification of two other input values to improve the model’s year-over-year stability. We utilized the same base mortality, SOA RP-2014 Adjusted to 2006 Total Dataset Mortality, but we revised our mortality assumption to incorporate the MP-2016 Mortality Improvement Scale for purposes of measuring our U.S. pension and OPEB obligations at December 31, 2016. 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”), 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 reinvested 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 reinvested. Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income comprises principally 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 $2.4 million , $51.8 million and ($3.7) million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , 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, which was repatriated using the applicable transaction rates during the first quarter of 2015. 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, 2016 and 2015 have not been designated as hedging instruments under Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 815, Derivatives and Hedging . Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“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. In March 2016 and April 2016, the FASB issued amendments to this new guidance that provides clarification about principal versus agent considerations, identification of performance obligations and accounting for the licensing of intellectual property. In May 2016, the FASB issued an amendment to the guidance that provides clarification about collectability, noncash consideration, presentation of sales tax, and transition. In December 2016, the FASB issued an amendment to the guidance that provides narrow-

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Acquisitions: On January 12, 2015 (the “Acquisition Closing Date”), we completed the acquisition of all outstanding shares of Rockwood (the “Merger”) for a purchase price of approximately $ 5.7 billion . As a result, Rockwood became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Albemarle. 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 estimated fair value of the net assets acquired was approximately $2.8 billion and was recorded as goodwill. The allocation of the Rockwood purchase price was finalized in the first quarter of 2016. The following table summarizes the allocation of the purchase price paid and the amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed for the Rockwood acquisition based upon estimated fair values at the date of acquisition (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 290,496 Other current assets 86,267 Property, plant and equipment 1,383,480 Investments 529,453 Other assets 25,538 Definite-lived intangible assets: Patents and technology 227,840 Trade names and trademarks 234,610 Customer lists and relationships 1,280,142 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trade names and trademarks 104,380 Other 26,670 Current liabilities (406,532 ) Long-term debt (1,319,132 ) Pension benefits (316,086 ) Other noncurrent liabilities (195,052 ) Deferred income taxes (845,884 ) Noncontrolling interests (17,582 ) Total identifiable net assets 2,906,694 Goodwill 2,818,627 Total net assets acquired (a) $ 5,725,321 (a) Total net assets acquired includes amounts for the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, which is reported as discontinued operations. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. 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 $193.8 million . This increase to recognized goodwill includes approximately $1.5 million that was recognized during the year ended December 31, 2016 , within one year of the acquisition date, based on changes to intangible assets, property, plant and equipment and deferred taxes. 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 is not amortizable or deductible for tax purposes. Included in Acquisition and integration related costs on our consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 is $52.1 million , $123.9 million and $23.6 million , respectively, of integration costs resulting from the acquisition of Rockwood (mainly consisting of professional services fees, costs to achieve synergies, relocation costs, and other integration costs) and $5.3 million , $8.4 million and $6.6 million , respectively, of costs in connection with other significant projects. 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. 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 $103.4 million of charges related to the utilization of the inventory markup as further described in Note 25, “Segment and Geographic Area Information.” The pro forma results do not include adjustments related to cost savings or other synergies anticipated as a result of the Merger. In addition, pro forma amounts are not adjusted to reflect the Chemetall Surface Treatment business as discontinued operations. 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 $ 527,997 $ 353,313 Pro forma Net income 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. Other Acquisitions On December 31, 2016, we completed the acquisition of all equity interests in the lithium hydroxide and lithium carbonate conversion business of Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. for a cash purchase price of approximately $145 million . This includes manufacturing assets located in both Jiangxi and Sichuan, China focused on the production of battery-grade lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide. This acquisition will enable us to supply premium lithium salts to an expanded global customer base while solidifying our leading position in the lithium industry. The aggregate purchase price was allocated to the major categories of assets and liabilities acquired based upon their estimated fair values as of December 31, 2016, which were based, in part, upon outside preliminary appraisals for certain assets. The preliminary estimated fair values of the assets and liabilities acquired were primarily related to Property, plant and equipment of $29.0 million and Deferred tax assets of $1.6 million . In addition, the estimated fair value of net working capital acquired was $47.1 million , however, an equal liability was recorded in Accrued expenses, as it will be repaid to the previous owners of the acquired business. The excess of the purchase price over the preliminary estimated fair value of the net assets acquired was approximately $113.6 million and was recorded as goodwill. 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. The primary areas of the preliminary purchase price allocation that are not yet finalized relate to the property, plant and equipment, other intangible assets, as well as various working capital accounts. 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. Goodwill arising from the acquisition consists largely of the anticipated synergies and economies of scale from the combined assets and the overall strategic importance of the acquired assets to Albemarle. The goodwill attributable to the acquisition will not be amortizable or deductible for tax purposes. In 2015, our Chemetall Surface Treatment business completed several additional acquisitions, including (1) all remaining shares of its Shanghai Chemetall joint venture for a purchase price of $57.6 million , (2) the aluminum finishing business of Chemal GmbH & Co. KG (“Chemal GmbH”), based in Hamm, Germany for a purchase price of $2.2 million and (3) the remaining noncontrolling interests’ share of Nanjing Chemetall Surface Technologies Co., Ltd for a purchase price of $4.8 million . The ownership interests of each of these acquisitions were transferred to BASF SE in the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business on December 14, 2016. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information about the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business.

Divestitures

Divestitures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]	Divestitures: Chemetall Surface Treatment Business On June 17, 2016, we entered into a definitive agreement to sell the Chemetall Surface Treatment business to BASF SE. On December 14, 2016, the Company closed the sale of this business and received cash proceeds of approximately $3.1 billion , net of purchase price adjustments. Included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2016 is a pre-tax gain of $388.0 million ( $135.0 million after income taxes) related to the sale of this business, which included a reversal of $81.4 million of foreign currency translation loss out of Accumulated other comprehensive loss. This gain represents the difference between the carrying value of the related net assets and their fair value as determined by the sales price less estimated costs to sell. The sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business reflects the Company’s commitment to investing in the future growth of its high priority businesses, reducing leverage and returning capital to shareholders. The Chemetall Surface Treatment business was acquired on January 12, 2015 as part of the acquisition of Rockwood, see Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for further details. The sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, a separate reportable segment, qualifies for discontinued operations treatment because it represents a strategic shift that will have a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results . As a result, in the second quarter of 2016, the Company began accounting for this business as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income and excluded the business from segment results for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 , the periods this business was owned by Albemarle. Related assets and liabilities are classified as held for sale for all periods presented. As of the date this business qualified for discontinued operations treatment, the Company stopped recording depreciation and amortization expense on assets of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business. The major components of Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Net sales $ 813,285 $ 824,906 Cost of goods sold 416,934 488,267 Operating expenses, net (a) 268,402 239,316 Interest and financing expenses (b) 38,227 51,072 Other income, net (2,485 ) (4,214 ) Gain on sale of discontinued operations (387,980 ) — Income before income taxes 480,187 50,465 Income tax expense (c) 278,056 17,989 Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) $ 202,131 $ 32,476 (a) Operating expenses, net for discontinued operations includes mark-to market actuarial (losses) gains of ($8.5) million and $8.9 million during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. (b) Interest and financing expenses included the allocation of interest expense not directly attributab le to other operations as well as interest expense related to debt to be assumed by the buyer. The allocation of interest expense to discontinued operations was based on the ratio of net assets held for sale to the sum of total net assets plus consolidated debt. There was no interest expense allocated to discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 , as the Chemetall Surface Treatment business was not owned by the Company during this period. (c) Income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2016 included a charge of $253.0 million related to the gain on sale of discontinued operations. The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities for the Chemetall Surface Treatment business classified as held for sale at December 31, 2015 , were as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2015 Assets Current assets $ 237,447 Net property, plant and equipment 163,643 Goodwill 1,433,259 Other intangibles, net of amortization 1,349,179 All other noncurrent assets 25,374 Assets held for sale $ 3,208,902 Liabilities Current liabilities $ 200,892 Deferred income taxes 351,465 All other noncurrent liabilities 112,742 Liabilities held for sale $ 665,099 Depreciation and amortization and capital expenditures from discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Depreciation and amortization $ 35,194 $ 78,903 Capital expenditures $ 19,281 $ 23,738 Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Businesses 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 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 the year ended December 31, 2014 in effect before adopting the new standard on January 1, 2015. A summary of results of discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 is as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2014 Net sales $ 154,273 Loss from discontinued operations $ (90,439 ) Income tax benefit (20,908 ) Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) $ (69,531 ) Included in Income (loss) 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 . Other 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 were met for these businesses as well as a small group of assets at an idled site. As of the December 31, 2015 balance sheet date, the Company expected to complete the sales of the businesses included in assets and liabilities held for sale and therefore such amounts were classified as current. These businesses did not qualify for discontinued operations treatment because the Company’s management did not consider their sale or potential sale as representing a strategic shift that had or will have a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results . 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, effective for the first day of business in 2016. We received net proceeds of approximate ly $137 million and recorded a gain of $11.5 million before income taxes in 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 business to Huber Engineered Materials, a division of J.M. Huber Corporation. The transaction included 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 and recorded a gain of $112.3 million before income taxes in 2016 related to the sale of these businesses. In April 2016, the Company concluded that it would discontinue efforts to sell its fine chemistry services business, and as a result, this business is accounted for as held and used beginning in the second quarter of 2016. The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities of these businesses classified as held for sale at December 31, 2015 , were as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2015 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 Also included in Gain on sales of businesses, net, for the year ended December 31, 2016 was a loss of $1.5 million on the sale of our wafer reclaim business.

Supplemental Cash Flow Informat

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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, 2016 2015 2014 Cash paid during the year for: Income taxes (net of refunds of $9,270, $7,333 and $6,035 in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively) (a) $ 143,404 $ 162,408 $ 56,174 Interest (net of capitalization) $ 96,948 $ 153,271 $ 33,604 Supplemental non-cash disclosures related to investing activities: Capital expenditures included in Accounts payable $ 33,622 $ 45,826 $ 20,373 (a) Cash paid for income taxes during 2015 included approximately $111 million of taxes paid on repatriation of earnings from legacy Rockwood entities. Other, net within Cash flows from operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 included $40.8 million , ($70.7) million and $1.1 million , respectively, related to losses (gains) on fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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, 2016 2015 2014 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations Numerator: Net income from continuing operations $ 478,638 $ 327,588 $ 230,437 Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (37,094 ) (25,158 ) (27,590 ) Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 441,544 $ 302,430 $ 202,847 Denominator: Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share 112,379 111,182 78,696 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations $ 3.93 $ 2.72 $ 2.57 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations Numerator: Net income from continuing operations $ 478,638 $ 327,588 $ 230,437 Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (37,094 ) (25,158 ) (27,590 ) Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 441,544 $ 302,430 $ 202,847 Denominator: Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share 112,379 111,182 78,696 Incremental shares under stock compensation plans 860 374 406 Weighted-average common shares for diluted earnings per share 113,239 111,556 79,102 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations $ 3.90 $ 2.71 $ 2.57 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, 2016 , all common stock equivalents were included in the computation of diluted earnings per share. Included in the calculation of basic earnings per share are unvested restricted stock awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends. At December 31, 2016 , there were 6,000 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, 2016 , no shares of preferred stock have been issued. In November 2016, 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 previously authorized but not yet repurchased. Under its Board authorized share repurchase program, in 2014 the Company repurchased 2,190,254 shares of its common stock pursuant to accelerated share repurchase (“ASR”) agreements with two financial institutions. Amounts paid pursuant to the ASR agreements were $150 million in 2014, 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. There were no shares of the Company’s common stock repurchased during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015. As of December 31, 2016 , there were 15,000,000 remaining shares available for repurchase under the Company’s authorized share repurchase program.

Other Accounts Receivable

Other Accounts Receivable	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Receivables [Abstract]
Other Accounts Receivable	Other Accounts Receivable: Other accounts receivable consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Value added tax/consumption tax $ 15,324 $ 23,758 Other 26,661 51,231 Total (a) $ 41,985 $ 74,989 (a) As of December 31, 2015, $8.3 million of Other accounts receivable were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Inventories: The following table provides a breakdown of inventories at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Finished goods $ 289,102 $ 264,025 Raw materials and work in process (a) 109,706 122,038 Stores, supplies and other 51,455 53,450 Total inventories (b) $ 450,263 $ 439,513 (a) Included $47.1 million and $39.1 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, of work in process related to the Lithium product category. (b) As of December 31, 2015, $162.8 million of Inventories were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. Approximately 19% of our inventories are valued using the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method at December 31, 2016 and 2015 . The portion of our domestic inventories stated on the LIFO basis amounted to $87.5 million and $85.1 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, which are below replacement cost by approximately $33.8 million and $36.9 million , respectively.

Other Current Assets

Other Current Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Assets [Abstract]
Other Current Assets	Other Current Assets: Other current assets consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Income tax receivables $ 15,085 $ 22,649 Prepaid expenses 42,240 38,609 Other 1,254 1,664 Total (a) $ 58,579 $ 62,922 (a) As of December 31, 2015, $11.9 million of Other current assets were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): Useful Lives (Years) December 31, 2016 2015 Land — $ 120,842 $ 120,702 Land improvements 5 – 30 59,387 57,833 Buildings and improvements 10 – 45 256,603 236,577 Machinery and equipment (a) 2 – 45 2,501,481 2,216,085 Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs 7 – 60 654,006 652,871 Construction in progress — 318,203 416,404 Total (b) $ 3,910,522 $ 3,700,472 (a) 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. (b) As of December 31, 2015, $424.1 million of Property, plant and equipment, at cost, was classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. The cost of property, plant and equipment 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 $178.8 million , $162.2 million and $97.9 million during the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Depreciation expense related to discontinued operations was $8.9 million , $18.5 million and $2.3 million during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Interest capitalized on significant capital projects in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was $6.8 million , $11.2 million and $2.4 million , respectively.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Joint ventures (a) $ 429,794 $ 411,119 Nonmarketable securities 169 208 Marketable equity securities 27,570 24,257 Total $ 457,533 $ 435,584 (a) Balance at December 31, 2015 excludes our investment in Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG (“Magnifin”) and two investments included in the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, which are included in Assets held for sale. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. Our ownership positions in significant unconsolidated investments are shown below: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 * Windfield Holdings Pty. Ltd. - a joint venture with Sichuan Tianqi Lithium Industries, Inc., that mines lithium ore and produces lithium concentrate 49 % 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 (a) — % 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 % (a) On February 1, 2016, we sold our investment in Magnifin as part of the sale of the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. Our investment in the significant unconsolidated joint ventures above amounted to $404.6 million and $402.6 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, and the amount included in Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income totaled $56.8 million , $25.4 million and $34.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , 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 $99.4 million and $105.9 million of our consolidated retained earnings at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , 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, 2016 2015 Summary of Balance Sheet Information: Current assets $ 383,203 $ 331,630 Noncurrent assets 913,643 935,790 Total assets $ 1,296,846 $ 1,267,420 Current liabilities $ 138,474 $ 106,966 Noncurrent liabilities 319,801 339,604 Total liabilities $ 458,275 $ 446,570 Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Summary of Statements of Income Information: Net sales $ 590,980 $ 560,376 $ 499,394 Gross profit $ 267,241 $ 253,569 $ 164,063 Income before income taxes $ 189,016 $ 157,501 $ 101,983 Net income $ 126,872 $ 111,491 $ 71,466 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 $42.1 million , $58.1 million and $39.6 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , the carrying amount of our investments in unconsolidated joint ventures differed from the amount of underlying equity in net assets by approximately ($6.8) million and $11.5 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, 2016 and 2015 , $0.6 million and $0.8 million , respectively, remained to be amortized over the remaining useful lives of the assets with the balance of the difference representing primarily our share of the joint ventures’ goodwill. The 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 $288.6 million at December 31, 2016 . 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 $8.8 million and $7.8 million at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , 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 . The Company holds a 50% equity interest in Jordan Bromine Company Limited (“JBC”), reported in the Bromine Specialties segment. The Company consolidates this venture as it is considered the primary beneficiary due to its operational and financial control. Assets of the 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, 2016 and 2015 , these marketable securities amounted to $22.0 million and $21.6 million , respectively. At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , loans receivable from our 50% -owned joint venture, 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. Our SOCC joint venture in Saudi Arabia, included in our Lithium and Advanced Materials segment, is emerging from the start-up phase and experienced a small net loss as of December 31, 2016, indicating the carrying value potentially may be impaired. As a result, we assessed the recoverability of the investment and related balances in this venture as of December 31, 2016. As of December 31, 2016, the carrying amount of our equity interest in SOCC was $7.5 million and we had loans receivable from this venture that totaled $30.0 million . Based on our assessment, we expect to recover the carrying amount of our equity investment and related balances, and concluded that no other-than-temporary impairment exists as of December 31, 2016. In order to fully recover our investment and related balances, we and our venture partner are actively developing strategies to reduce costs and increase volumes at the venture, which would improve the financial performance of the investment.

Other Assets

Other Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other Assets	Other Assets: Other assets consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Deferred income taxes—noncurrent (a) $ 61,132 $ 75,813 Assets related to unrecognized tax benefits (a) 15,076 50,875 Long-term advances to joint ventures (b) 31,776 31,780 Other 34,336 35,930 Total (c) $ 142,320 $ 194,398 (a) See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.” (b) See Note 10, “Investments.” (c) As of December 31, 2015, $8.6 million of Other Assets were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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 reportable segment for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): Lithium and Advanced Materials Bromine Specialties Refining Solutions All Other Total Balance at December 31, 2014 (a) $ 21,697 $ 20,319 $ 192,657 $ 8,589 $ 243,262 Acquisition of Rockwood 1,293,467 — — 41,151 1,334,618 Reclass to assets held for sale (b) — — — (46,794 ) (46,794 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments (47,659 ) — (19,929 ) (2,946 ) (70,534 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 (a)(c) 1,267,505 20,319 172,728 — 1,460,552 Acquisition of Rockwood (d) (1,706 ) — — — (1,706 ) Other acquisitions (e) 113,555 — — — 113,555 Reclass from assets held for sale (f) — — — 6,586 6,586 Foreign currency translation adjustments (31,093 ) — (7,862 ) — (38,955 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 1,348,261 $ 20,319 $ 164,866 $ 6,586 $ 1,540,032 (a) The December 31, 2015 and 2014 balances have been recast to reflect a change in segments. See Note 25, “Segment and Geographic Area Information,” for further details. (b) Represents Goodwill of the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals, fine chemistry services and metal sulfides businesses. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (c) As of December 31, 2015, $1.5 billion of Goodwill was classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (d) Represents final purchase price adjustments for the Rockwood acquisition recorded for the year ended December 31, 2016. Excludes $3.2 million of final purchase price adjustments for businesses reported as discontinued operations. (e) Represents preliminary purchase price adjustments for the Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. acquisition recorded for the year ended December 31, 2016. See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (f) Represents Goodwill of the fine chemistry services business, which was reported in Assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015, but reclassified back to Goodwill during the year end December 31, 2016. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. Other intangibles consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): Customer Lists and Relationships Trade Names and Trademarks (a) Patents and Technology Other Total Gross Asset Value Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 48,479 $ 17,555 $ 40,398 $ 23,441 $ 129,873 Acquisition of Rockwood 386,330 — 58,230 — 444,560 Reclass to assets held for sale (b) (16,608 ) — (54,060 ) (1,454 ) (72,122 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (19,476 ) (632 ) (4,424 ) (4,208 ) (28,740 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 398,725 16,923 40,144 17,779 473,571 Reclass from assets held for sale (c) — — — 1,454 1,454 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (10,832 ) (409 ) (1,710 ) (389 ) (13,340 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 387,893 $ 16,514 $ 38,434 $ 18,844 $ 461,685 Accumulated Amortization Balance at December 31, 2014 $ (22,931 ) $ (7,912 ) $ (32,831 ) $ (22,074 ) $ (85,748 ) Amortization (11,441 ) (423 ) (4,654 ) (401 ) (16,919 ) Reclass to assets held for sale (b) 596 — 3,880 1,322 5,798 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 1,120 249 1,597 4,200 7,166 Balance at December 31, 2015 (32,656 ) (8,086 ) (32,008 ) (16,953 ) (89,703 ) Amortization (18,034 ) — (574 ) (431 ) (19,039 ) Reclass from assets held for sale (c) — — — (1,322 ) (1,322 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 1,525 134 899 385 2,943 Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (49,165 ) $ (7,952 ) $ (31,683 ) $ (18,321 ) $ (107,121 ) Net Book Value at December 31, 2015 (d) $ 366,069 $ 8,837 $ 8,136 $ 826 $ 383,868 Net Book Value at December 31, 2016 $ 338,728 $ 8,562 $ 6,751 $ 523 $ 354,564 (a) Balances as of December 31, 2015 and 2016 include only indefinite-lived intangible assets. (b) Represents Other intangibles and related amortization of the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals, fine chemistry services and metal sulfides businesses. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (c) Represents Other intangibles and related amortization of the fine chemistry services business, which was reported in Assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015, but reclassified back to Other intangibles during the year end December 31, 2016. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (d) As of December 31, 2015, $1.4 billion of Other intangibles, net of amortization were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3 “Divestitures,” for additional information. Useful lives range from 15 – 25 years for customer lists and relationships; 17 – 20 years for patents and technology; and 5 – 15 years for other. Amortization of other intangibles amounted to $19.0 million , $16.9 million and $5.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Included in amortization for the year ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 is $15.9 million and $8.7 million , respectively, of amortization using the pattern of economic benefit method. Amortization of other intangibles related to discontinued operations was $26.3 million , $60.4 million and $0.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , 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 2017 $ 20,714 2018 $ 22,019 2019 $ 22,327 2020 $ 21,671 2021 $ 21,392

Accrued Expenses

Accrued Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses	Accrued Expenses: Accrued expenses consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Employee benefits, payroll and related taxes $ 92,478 $ 91,970 Obligations in connection with acquisitions (a) 47,082 128,881 Other (b) 182,605 92,408 Total (c) $ 322,165 $ 313,259 (a) As of December 31, 2016 included accruals related to net working capital amounts arising from the acquisition of the lithium business of Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. The balance as of December 31, 2015 included 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. (c) As of December 31, 2015, $112.1 million of Accrued expenses were classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Long-Term Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	Long-Term Debt: Long-term debt consisted of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Term loan facilities, net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $2,833 at December 31, 2015 $ — $ 1,247,167 1.875% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $7,823 at December 31, 2016 and $9,904 at December 31, 2015 719,617 759,151 3.00% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $1,286 at December 31, 2016 and $1,726 at December 31, 2015 248,714 248,274 4.15% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $3,859 at December 31, 2016 and $4,346 at December 31, 2015 421,141 420,654 4.50% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $2,380 at December 31, 2016 and $2,982 at December 31, 2015 347,620 347,018 5.45% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $4,313 at December 31, 2016 and $4,468 at December 31, 2015 345,687 345,532 Commercial paper notes 247,503 351,349 Variable-rate foreign bank loans 38,939 77,452 Variable-rate domestic bank loans — 20,479 Miscellaneous 41 81 Total long-term debt (a) 2,369,262 3,817,157 Less amounts due within one year 247,544 674,994 Long-term debt, less current portion $ 2,121,718 $ 3,142,163 (a) As of December 31, 2015, $20.3 million of long-term debt was classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. As a result of the adoption of new accounting guidance effective January 1, 2016 on a retrospective basis, unamortized debt issuance costs are now deducted from the carrying amount of the associated debt liability on the balance sheet. The reclassification of these unamortized debt issuance costs resulted in reductions of $17.1 million in Long-term debt and Other assets on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015. See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” for additional information. Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt as of December 31, 2016 are as follows (in millions): 2017 — $247.5 ; 2018 — $0.0 ; 2019 — $250.0 ; 2020 — $388.9 ; 2021 — $727.4 ; thereafter— $775.0 . 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. 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. Through February 2017, using a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, we repaid the 3.00% Senior notes in full, €307.0 million of the 1.875% Senior notes and $174.7 million of the 4.50% Senior notes, as well as related tender premiums of $45.2 million . Upon completion of the Rockwood acquisition, we assumed Rockwood’s senior notes with an aggregate principal amount of $1.25 billion . Under the terms of the indenture governing the senior notes, as amended and supplemented, on October 15, 2015, our wholly-owned subsidiary, Rockwood Specialties Group, Inc., redeemed all of the outstanding Rockwood 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 these senior notes and the 2014 Senior Notes were released upon repayment of these 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 $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, 2016 and 2015 , gains of $26.1 million and $50.9 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 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 provided 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.” During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company repaid the 364-Day Facility and Five-Year Facility in full, primarily with proceeds from the sales of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, the metal sulfides business and the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business. The interest rate on both Term loan facilities was LIBOR plus 1.375% . 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, 2016 . 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 acquisition and integration related costs, utilization of inventory markup, gains or losses on sales of businesses, 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. 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, 2016 , 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. Using a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, we repaid approximately $153 million of Commercial Paper Notes in December 2016. At December 31, 2016 , we had $247.5 million of Commercial Paper Notes outstanding bearing a weighted-average interest rate of approximately 1.46% and a weighted-average maturity of 37 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 loan 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% . 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 $263 million at December 31, 2016 . Outstanding borrowings under these agreements were $38.9 million and $97.9 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The average interest rate on borrowings under these agreements during 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was approximately 0.94% , 0.74% and 0.83% , respectively. At December 31, 2016 and 2015 , 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, 2016 and 2015 . At December 31, 2016 , we had the ability to borrow $752.5 million under our commercial paper program and the February 2014 Credit Agreement. We believe that as of December 31, 2016 , 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, 2016
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 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, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Change in benefit obligations: Benefit obligation at January 1 $ 682,839 $ 245,747 $ 729,652 $ 53,112 Service cost 1,028 3,133 1,233 3,909 Interest cost 30,514 6,570 30,235 6,405 Plan amendments — — — 864 Actuarial loss (gain) 7,357 28,083 (54,140 ) (30,978 ) Benefits paid (56,050 ) (9,793 ) (37,512 ) (11,283 ) Acquisitions — — 13,371 270,618 Divestitures — (6,372 ) — — Reclass to liabilities held for sale — — — (26,608 ) Employee contributions — 245 — 256 Foreign exchange gain — (21,724 ) — (20,105 ) Settlements/curtailments — (427 ) — (161 ) Other — 818 — (282 ) Benefit obligation at December 31 $ 665,688 $ 246,280 $ 682,839 $ 245,747 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at January 1 $ 555,084 $ 64,911 $ 598,250 $ 9,444 Actual return on plan assets 37,725 12,534 (16,306 ) 630 Employer contributions 1,323 10,911 1,398 11,864 Benefits paid (56,050 ) (9,793 ) (37,512 ) (11,283 ) Acquisitions — — 9,254 56,418 Employee contributions — 245 — 256 Foreign exchange loss — (10,492 ) — (2,189 ) Settlements/curtailments — — — (161 ) Other — 559 — (68 ) Fair value of plan assets at December 31 $ 538,082 $ 68,875 $ 555,084 $ 64,911 Funded status at December 31 $ (127,606 ) $ (177,405 ) $ (127,755 ) $ (180,836 ) December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets: Current liabilities (accrued expenses) $ (1,100 ) $ (5,216 ) $ (1,110 ) $ (7,498 ) Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits) (126,506 ) (172,189 ) (126,645 ) (173,338 ) Net pension liability $ (127,606 ) $ (177,405 ) $ (127,755 ) $ (180,836 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss): Prior service benefit $ (136 ) $ (322 ) $ (211 ) $ (1,046 ) Net amount recognized $ (136 ) $ (322 ) $ (211 ) $ (1,046 ) Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate 4.43 % 2.00 % 4.67 % 2.76 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.18 % — % 3.16 % The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans was $901.4 million and $916.7 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , 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, 2016 2015 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Change in benefit obligations: Benefit obligation at January 1 $ 56,499 $ 64,500 Service cost 115 137 Interest cost 2,483 2,573 Actuarial loss (gain) 1,529 (5,690 ) Benefits paid (4,485 ) (5,021 ) Benefit obligation at December 31 $ 56,141 $ 56,499 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at January 1 $ 3,292 $ 4,439 Actual return on plan assets 442 280 Employer contributions 2,983 3,594 Benefits paid (4,485 ) (5,021 ) Fair value of plan assets at December 31 $ 2,232 $ 3,292 Funded status at December 31 $ (53,909 ) $ (53,207 ) December 31, 2016 2015 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets: Current liabilities (accrued expenses) $ (3,371 ) $ (3,560 ) Noncurrent liabilities (postretirement benefits) (50,538 ) (49,647 ) Net postretirement liability $ (53,909 ) $ (53,207 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss): Prior service benefit $ 143 $ 239 Net amount recognized $ 143 $ 239 Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate 4.35 % 4.59 % Rate of compensation increase 3.50 % 3.50 % The components of pension benefits cost (credit) from continuing operations are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Service cost $ 1,028 $ 3,133 $ 1,233 $ 3,909 $ 7,029 $ 1,746 Interest cost 30,514 6,570 30,235 6,405 30,491 1,571 Expected return on assets (36,445 ) (4,027 ) (40,495 ) (3,670 ) (39,714 ) (427 ) Actuarial loss (gain) 5,988 19,418 2,665 (27,043 ) 116,705 10,270 Amortization of prior service benefit 75 859 75 43 (727 ) 50 Total net pension benefits cost (credit) (a) $ 1,160 $ 25,953 $ (6,287 ) $ (20,356 ) $ 113,784 $ 13,210 Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 4.67 % 2.76 % 4.19 % 2.22 % 5.14 % 3.41 % Expected return on plan assets 6.89 % 6.66 % 6.88 % 5.76 % 6.91 % 4.00 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.16 % — % 3.15 % 3.50 % 3.16 % (a) For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, $10.8 million and $6.2 million , respectively, of net pension benefits credit is included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. Effective January 1, 2017 , the weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets for the U.S. and foreign defined benefit pension plans is 6.89% and 6.16% , respectively. The estimated amounts to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic pension costs during 2017 are as follows (in thousands): U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Amortization of prior service benefit $ 75 $ 36 The components of postretirement benefits cost (credit) from continuing operations are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Service cost $ 115 $ 137 $ 216 Interest cost 2,483 2,573 3,040 Expected return on assets (187 ) (263 ) (342 ) Actuarial loss (gain) 1,275 (5,707 ) 3,868 Amortization of prior service benefit (95 ) (95 ) (95 ) Total net postretirement benefits cost (credit) (a) $ 3,591 $ (3,355 ) $ 6,687 Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 4.59 % 4.15 % 5.03 % Expected return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % Rate of compensation increase 3.50 % 3.50 % 3.50 % (a) For the year ended December 31, 2015, $2.6 million of net postretirement benefits credit is included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. Effective January 1, 2017 , 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 2017 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, 2016 . 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 tables set forth the assets of our pension and postretirement plans that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 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) $ 146,683 $ 143,987 $ 2,696 $ — International Equity (b) 116,649 83,839 32,810 — Fixed Income (c) 255,401 230,309 25,092 — Absolute Return Measured at Net Asset Value (d) 86,112 — — — Cash 2,112 2,112 — — Total Pension Assets $ 606,957 $ 460,247 $ 60,598 $ — Postretirement Assets: Fixed Income (c) $ 2,232 $ — $ 2,232 $ — 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) $ 163,408 $ 161,075 $ 2,333 $ — International Equity (b) 115,949 84,019 31,930 — Fixed Income (c) 254,560 231,411 23,149 — Absolute Return Measured at Net Asset Value (d) 80,746 — — — Cash 5,332 5,332 — — Total Pension Assets $ 619,995 $ 481,837 $ 57,412 $ — 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. Holdings in private investment companies are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share as a practical expedient and have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy as a result of the adoption of new accounting guidance effective January 1, 2016 on a retrospective basis. The fair value amounts of $86.1 million and $80.7 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, are included in this table to permit reconciliation to the reconciliation of plan assets table above. See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” for additional information. 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, 2016 and 2015 , 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 42 % Absolute return 13 % 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 $20.1 million , $21.6 million and $13.9 million during the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively, related to continuing and discontinued operations. We expect contributions to our domestic nonqualified and foreign qualified and nonqualified pension plans to approximate $10 million in 2017 . Also, we expect to pay approximately $3 million in premiums to our U.S. postretirement benefit plan in 2017 . 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, amounts to (in millions): U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Other Postretirement Benefits 2017 $ 39.6 $ 9.2 $ 4.7 2018 $ 40.9 $ 8.7 $ 4.5 2019 $ 41.9 $ 8.2 $ 4.3 2020 $ 42.7 $ 9.0 $ 4.0 2021 $ 43.1 $ 9.6 $ 3.8 2022-2026 $ 219.2 $ 51.2 $ 18.2 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 $1.6 million , ($2.1) million and $7.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The projected benefit obligation for the SERP recognized in the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $23.5 million and $23.1 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 2017 . 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, 2016 , 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 $15.1 million , $12.8 million , and $8.4 million in 2016, 2015 and 2014, 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 $12.7 million , $11.7 million and $10.0 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , 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 $9.5 million , $7.2 million and $10.1 million in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , 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, 2015, 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 for continuing and discontinued operations were €2.7 million (approximately $3.0 million and $3.1 million ) during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The Company’s contributions represented more than 5% of total contributions to the DN Pensionskasse in 2016 . Effective July 1, 2016, the DN Pensionskasse is subject to a financial improvement plan which expires on December 31, 2022. This financial improvement plan calls for increased capital reserves to avoid future underfunding risk. The value of the additional funding for the year ended December 31, 2016 required under the financial improvement plan is determined upon the completion of the annual financial statements and are payable in the second quarter of 2017. For the remaining years of the financial improvement plan, a portion of the additional funding necessary for the year will be based on an estimate prepared on September 30 of each year and payable in the fourth quarter of each year. The remaining annual amount of additional funding necessary will be determined upon the completion of the annual financial statements and is payable in the second quarter of the following year.

Other Noncurrent Liabilities

Other Noncurrent Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other Noncurrent Liabilities	Other Noncurrent Liabilities: Other noncurrent liabilities consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions (a) $ 27,919 $ 101,677 Executive deferred compensation plan obligation 22,037 21,631 Environmental liabilities (b) 32,595 29,993 Asset retirement obligations (b) 36,296 37,230 Tax indemnification liability (c) 38,255 — Other (d) 37,708 48,573 Total (e) $ 194,810 $ 239,104 (a) See Note 20, “Income Taxes.” (b) See Note 17, “Commitments and Contingencies.” (c) Indemnification of certain income and non-income tax liabilities associated with the Chemetall Surface Treatment entities sold. (d) No individual component exceeds 5% of total liabilities. (e) As of December 31, 2015, $20.2 million of Other noncurrent liabilities were classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies: In the ordinary course of business, we have commitments in connection with various activities. We believe that amounts recorded are adequate for known items which might become due in the current year. The most significant commitments are as follows: Environmental We had the following activity in our recorded environmental liabilities for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Balance, beginning of year $ 31,436 $ 9,235 $ 16,599 Expenditures (2,667 ) (4,039 ) (4,548 ) Acquisition of Rockwood — 34,626 — Divestitures — (1,826 ) (1,954 ) Accretion of discount 793 902 — Additions and revisions of estimates 4,004 150 34 Reclass to liabilities held for sale (a) — (5,253 ) — Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 1,353 (2,359 ) (896 ) Balance, end of year (b) 34,919 31,436 9,235 Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses 2,324 1,443 4,394 Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities $ 32,595 $ 29,993 $ 4,841 (a) Represents environmental liabilities of the metal sulfides and minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals businesses. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (b) As of December 31, 2015, $3.9 million of environmental liabilities were classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. Environmental remediation liabilities included discounted liabilities of $22.8 million and $22.0 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, discounted at rates with a weighted-average of 3.5% , with the undiscounted amount totaling $61.1 million and $59.5 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. For certain locations where the Company is operating groundwater monitoring and/or remediation systems, prior owners or insurers have assumed all or most of the responsibility. 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 $16 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 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Balance, beginning of year $ 37,230 $ 15,085 Acquisition of Rockwood — 17,265 Liabilities incurred — 3,636 Accretion of discount 1,354 1,289 Liabilities settled (370 ) — Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (1,918 ) (45 ) Balance, end of year $ 36,296 $ 37,230 Our asset retirement obligations are recorded in Other noncurrent liabilities in the 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. The following schedule details the future non-cancelable minimum lease payments for the next five years and thereafter (in thousands): Operating Leases 2017 $ 12,065 2018 $ 10,153 2019 $ 7,878 2020 $ 6,369 2021 $ 5,490 Thereafter $ 19,240 Rental expense was approximately $31.4 million , $34.8 million , and $31.9 million for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Rental expense related to discontinued operations was approximately $11.8 million , $10.2 million and $1.3 million for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Rental expense is shown net of sublease income which was minimal during 2016 , 2015 and 2014 . 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. See Note 16, “Other Noncurrent Liabilities,” for the tax indemnification liability related to the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business. 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): 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Thereafter Letters of credit and other guarantees $ 23,619 $ 5,052 $ 795 $ 199 $ 315 $ 21,357 The outstanding letters of credit are primarily related to insurance claim payment guarantees with expiration dates ranging from 2017 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, 2016 . 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, 2016
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 141,661 , 313,803 and 222,939 stock options during 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , 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, 2016 , there were 2,268,750 shares available for grant under the Incentive Plan and 420,091 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, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 amounted to $17.0 million , $15.2 million and $14.3 million , respectively, and is included in Cost of goods sold and SG&A expenses in the consolidated statement s of income. To tal related recognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 amounted to $6.2 million , $5.6 million and $5.2 million , respectively. As a result of the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, we converted previously granted incentive awards owed to Chemetall employees to a cash liability to be paid on the original vesting dates of the awards. The Company recognized expense of $5.8 million , included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2016, and an equal liability in Other noncurrent liabilities as of December 31, 2016. The following table summarizes information about the Company’s fixed-price stock options as of and for the year ended December 31, 2016 : Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands) Outstanding at December 31, 2015 1,676,927 $ 50.76 6.1 $ 14,152 Granted 141,661 56.56 Exercised (212,343 ) 44.28 Forfeited (64,001 ) 59.03 Outstanding at December 31, 2016 1,542,244 $ 51.85 5.5 $ 52,798 Exercisable at December 31, 2016 858,291 $ 45.63 3.7 $ 34,720 The fair value of each option granted during the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions: Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Dividend yield 1.84 % 1.80 % 1.71 % Volatility 33.08 % 32.92 % 33.03 % Average expected life (years) 6 6 6 Risk-free interest rate 1.96 % 2.17 % 2.94 % Fair value of options granted $ 16.06 $ 16.04 $ 19.56 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, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was $7.9 million , $0.5 million and $2.4 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, 2016 is approximately $6.3 million and is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average period of 1.8 years. Cash proceeds from stock options exercised and tax benefits related to stock options exercised were $9.4 million and $2.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 , 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, 2016 : Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested, beginning of period 497,205 $ 62.04 Granted 139,948 78.03 Vested (80,970 ) 61.75 Forfeited (61,492 ) 63.61 Nonvested, end of period 494,691 66.42 The weighted average grant date fair value of performance unit awards granted in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was $10.9 million , $11.9 million and $20.1 million , respectively. The weighted average fair value of performance unit awards that vested during 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was $4.6 million , $2.5 million and $7.4 million , respectively, based on the closing prices of our common stock on the dates of vesting. Total compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested performance unit awards outstanding as of December 31, 2016 is approximately $12.0 million , calculated based on current expectation of specific performance criteria, and is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average period of approximately 1.3 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, 2016 : Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested, beginning of period 118,121 $ 58.62 Granted 156,662 56.43 Vested (53,875 ) 57.34 Forfeited (40,252 ) 54.65 Nonvested, end of period 180,656 57.99 The weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards granted in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was $8.8 million , $3.5 million and $2.7 million , respectively. The weighted average fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards that vested in 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was $3.2 million , $2.2 million and $2.1 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, 2016 is approximately $6.3 million and is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average period of 2.2 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, 2016
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, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Foreign Currency Translation (a) Pension and Post-Retirement Benefits (b) Net Investment Hedge Interest Rate Swap (c) Total Accumulated other comprehensive income - balance at December 31, 2013 $ 115,758 $ 487 $ — $ — $ 116,245 Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (151,059 ) — 11,384 (21,174 ) (160,849 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (17,614 ) (487 ) — 212 (17,889 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (168,673 ) (487 ) 11,384 (20,962 ) (178,738 ) Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 80 — — — 80 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2014 $ (52,835 ) $ — $ 11,384 $ (20,962 ) $ (62,413 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (412,997 ) (774 ) 50,861 — (362,910 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income 27 16 — 2,101 2,144 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (412,970 ) (758 ) 50,861 2,101 (360,766 ) Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 1,891 — — — 1,891 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2015 $ (463,914 ) $ (758 ) $ 62,245 $ (18,861 ) $ (421,288 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (102,246 ) — 26,133 — (76,113 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income 81,421 834 — 2,116 84,371 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (20,825 ) 834 26,133 2,116 8,258 Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 618 — — — 618 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2016 $ (484,121 ) $ 76 $ 88,378 $ (16,745 ) $ (412,412 ) (a) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2016 are included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2016 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 and the sale of our Chemetall Surface Treatment business which closed on December 14, 2016. 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 benefit (expense) allocated to each component of Other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 is provided in the following tables (in thousands): Foreign Currency Translation Pension and Postretirement Benefits Net Investment Hedge (a) Interest Rate Swap (b) 2016 Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax $ (20,849 ) $ 839 $ 41,209 $ 3,336 Income tax benefit (expense) 24 (5 ) (15,076 ) (1,220 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax $ (20,825 ) $ 834 $ 26,133 $ 2,116 2015 Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax $ (451,762 ) $ (751 ) $ 80,746 $ 3,336 Income tax benefit (expense) 38,792 (7 ) (29,885 ) (1,235 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax $ (412,970 ) $ (758 ) $ 50,861 $ 2,101 2014 Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax $ (163,319 ) $ (772 ) $ 17,971 $ (33,091 ) Income tax (expense) benefit (5,354 ) 285 (6,587 ) 12,129 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax $ (168,673 ) $ (487 ) $ 11,384 $ (20,962 ) (a) Other comprehensive (loss) 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) income, 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, 2016
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, 2016 2015 2014 Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments: Domestic $ 49,630 $ (15,861 ) $ 45,689 Foreign 465,634 326,605 167,490 Total $ 515,264 $ 310,744 $ 213,179 Current income tax expense (benefit): Federal $ 7,717 $ 76,778 $ 36,708 State 1,407 (983 ) 3,209 Foreign 63,957 58,710 25,700 Total $ 73,081 $ 134,505 $ 65,617 Deferred income tax expense (benefit): Federal $ 12,230 $ (127,212 ) $ (32,890 ) State (1,715 ) (1,267 ) (1,139 ) Foreign 12,667 5,108 (13,104 ) Total $ 23,182 $ (123,371 ) $ (47,133 ) Total income tax expense $ 96,263 $ 11,134 $ 18,484 The reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate to the effective income tax rate is as follows: % of Income Before Income Taxes 2016 2015 2014 Federal statutory rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % State taxes, net of federal tax benefit (0.1 ) 1.4 0.2 Change in valuation allowance 3.7 5.7 1.0 Impact of foreign earnings, net (a) (19.3 ) (22.0 ) (24.8 ) Subpart F income 0.2 7.8 1.2 Deemed repatriation of foreign income (b) — 105.5 — Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries (a)(b) 0.1 (114.8 ) (0.3 ) Nondeductible transaction costs — 2.0 — Depletion (1.0 ) (1.8 ) (2.4 ) Revaluation of unrecognized tax benefits/reserve requirements (c) (0.4 ) (14.4 ) (0.6 ) Domestic manufacturing tax deduction (0.9 ) (0.5 ) (2.2 ) Other items, net 1.4 (0.3 ) 1.6 Effective income tax rate 18.7 % 3.6 % 8.7 % (a) During 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , we received actual and deemed distributions of $308.4 million , $1.4 billion and $12.6 million , respectively, from various foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures, and realized an expense, net of foreign tax credits, of $67.5 million , $350.2 million and $2.8 million , respectively, related to the repatriation of these earnings, which impacted our effective tax rate. Our statutory rate is decreased by 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 7.3% , 8.2% , and 12.4% for 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. (b) In prior years, we designated the undistributed earnings of substantially all of our foreign subsidiaries as indefinitely reinvested. In 2015, we were not indefinitely reinvested 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. (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 $42.7 million . Deferred income tax assets and liabilities recorded on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Deferred tax assets: Accrued employee benefits $ 32,622 $ 25,519 Accrued expenses 10,065 24,581 Operating loss carryovers 91,934 116,686 Pensions 96,635 96,133 Tax credit carryovers 1,029 2,555 Other 34,866 35,557 Gross deferred tax assets 267,151 301,031 Valuation allowance (69,900 ) (84,137 ) Deferred tax assets 197,251 216,894 Deferred tax liabilities: Depreciation (379,161 ) (364,657 ) Intangibles (99,969 ) (108,047 ) Hedge of Net Investment of Foreign Subsidiary (51,192 ) (36,537 ) Other (18,536 ) (16,692 ) Deferred tax liabilities (548,858 ) (525,933 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (351,607 ) $ (309,039 ) Classification in the consolidated balance sheets: Noncurrent deferred tax assets $ 61,132 $ 75,813 Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities (412,739 ) (384,852 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (351,607 ) $ (309,039 ) Changes in the balance of our deferred tax asset valuation allowance are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Balance at January 1 $ (84,137 ) $ (30,768 ) $ (33,757 ) Additions (a) (20,568 ) (59,889 ) (1,895 ) Deductions 34,805 6,520 4,884 Balance at December 31 $ (69,900 ) $ (84,137 ) $ (30,768 ) (a) Additions for the year ended December 31, 2015 includes $42.0 million related to the acquisition of Rockwood. At December 31, 2016 , we had approximately $1.6 million of domestic credits available to offset future payments of income taxes, expiring in varying amounts between 2017 and 2026 . We have established valuation allowances for $0.4 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, 2016 , we have on a pre-tax basis, domestic state net operating losses of $114.6 million , expiring between 2017 and 2036, which have pre-tax valuation allowances of $32.2 million established, and domestic state capital losses of $55.6 million expiring in 2017, which have pre-tax valuation allowances of $55.6 million established. In addition, we have on a pre-tax basis $307.8 million of foreign net operating losses of which a majority have an indefinite life, which have pre-tax valuation allowances for $197.5 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 $77.2 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, 2016 , we have not recorded U.S. income taxes on approximately $3.6 billion of cumulative undistributed earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries and joint ventures, which includes the estimated effect of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business divestiture foreign gain of $2.3 billion , as these earnings are intended to be either indefinitely reinvested or subject to a tax-free liquidation and do not give rise to significant incremental 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 reinvested, 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 $27.9 million and $101.7 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, inclusive of interest and penalties of $3.0 million and $6.5 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, and are reported in Other noncurrent liabilities as provided in Note 16, “Other Noncurrent Liabilities.” These liabilities at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were reduced by $15.1 million and $50.9 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, “Other Assets.” The resulting net liabilities of $9.8 million and $44.3 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, if recognized and released, would favorably affect earnings. The liabilities related to uncertain tax positions, exclusive of interest, were $25.4 million and $95.7 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The following is a reconciliation of our total gross liability related to uncertain tax positions for 2016 , 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Balance at January 1 $ 95,715 $ 24,969 $ 29,143 Acquisition of Rockwood — 124,758 — Divestitures (a) (55,881 ) — — Additions for tax positions related to prior years 548 4,329 — Reductions for tax positions related to prior years (1,253 ) (46,211 ) (214 ) Additions for tax positions related to current year 1,271 202 2,232 Lapses in statutes of limitations/settlements (12,591 ) (6,736 ) (5,057 ) Foreign currency translation adjustment (2,425 ) (5,596 ) (1,135 ) Balance at December 31 $ 25,384 $ 95,715 $ 24,969 (a) Reclassified to Other noncurrent liabilities as a result of the indemnification of certain income tax liabilities associated with the Chemetall Surface Treatment entities sold. See Note 16, “Other Noncurrent Liabilities.” 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 2013. In 2016, the IRS finalized its audit of legacy Albemarle’s U.S. consolidated group for 2011 and 2012. 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 2016, the German tax authorities continued and announced audits on multiple German subsidiaries that have since divested, for various years from 2006 through 2015. Also during 2016, audits of our Japanese, Taiwan, Singapore, and Netherlands subsidiaries were closed with no issue. In addition, we have various audits ongoing for the years 2007 through 2014 related to Canada, Russia, India, and Italy, all of which are entities that have since been divested. 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 $3.2 million as a result of closure of tax statutes.

Restructuring and Other

Restructuring and Other	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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 and 2014 consists of the following (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business (a) $ (6,804 ) $ — Charges in connection with aluminum alkyl supply capacity reduction (b) — 23,521 Other, net (c) — 2,426 Total Restructuring and other, net $ (6,804 ) $ 25,947 (a) In the third quarter of 2015, a gain of $6.8 million ( $5.4 million after i ncome 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) The amount for 2014 mainly consists of charges 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, 2016
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, 2016 2015 Recorded Amount Fair Value Recorded Amount Fair Value (In thousands) Long-term debt $ 2,381,370 $ 2,472,813 $ 3,834,217 $ 3,793,179 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, 2016 and 2015 , we had outstanding foreign currency forward contracts with notional values totaling $251.6 million and $217.7 million , respectively. Our foreign currency forward contracts outstanding at December 31, 2016 and 2015 have not been designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging . As of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , $0.2 million and $0.3 million , respectively, was included in Accrued expenses associated with the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts. Gains and losses on foreign currency forward contracts are recognized currently in Other 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, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 we recognized gains (losses) of $16.1 million , ($38.5) million and ($17.8) 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, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , we recorded (gains) losses of ($16.1) million , $38.5 million and $17.8 million , respectively, related to the change in the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts, and net cash receipts (settlements) of $16.0 million , ($37.6) million and ($18.3) 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, 2016
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, 2016 . 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, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 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) $ 22,037 $ 22,037 $ — $ — Private equity securities (b) $ 35 $ 35 $ — $ — Private equity securities measured at net asset value (b)(c) $ 5,498 $ — $ — $ — Pension assets (d) $ 520,845 $ 460,247 $ 60,598 $ — Pension assets measured at net asset value (d) $ 86,112 $ — $ — $ — Postretirement assets (d) $ 2,232 $ — $ 2,232 $ — Liabilities: Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 22,037 $ 22,037 $ — $ — Foreign currency forward contracts (e) $ 182 $ — $ 182 $ — 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) $ 31 $ 31 $ — $ — Private equity securities measured at net asset value (b)(c) $ 2,595 $ — $ — $ — Pension assets (d) $ 539,249 $ 481,837 $ 57,412 $ — Pension assets measured at net asset value (d) $ 80,746 $ — $ — $ — Postretirement assets (d) $ 3,292 $ — $ 3,292 $ — Liabilities: Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 21,631 $ 21,631 $ — $ — Foreign currency forward contracts (e) $ 250 $ — $ 250 $ — (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. (c) Holdings in private equity securities are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient and have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy as a result of the adoption of new accounting guidance effective January 1, 2016 on a retrospective basis. The fair value amounts of $5.5 million and $2.6 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, are included in this table to permit reconciliation to the marketable equity securities presented in Note 10, “Investments.” See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” for additional information. (d) See Note 15 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets. (e) 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.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	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, 2016 2015 2014 Sales to unconsolidated affiliates $ 29,651 $ 24,180 $ 45,415 Purchases from unconsolidated affiliates 130,287 115,697 64,631

Segment and Geographic Area Inf

Segment and Geographic Area Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment and Geographic Area Information	Segment and Geographic Area Information: Effective January 1, 2016, our former Performance Chemicals reportable segment was split into two reportable segments: (1) Lithium and Advanced Materials and (2) Bromine Specialties. In addition, on June 17, 2016, the Company signed a definitive agreement to sell its Chemetall Surface Treatment business to BASF SE. This business, a separate reportable segment, is classified as discontinued operations and its results are excluded from segment results for all periods presented. As a result, our three reportable segments include Lithium and Advanced Materials, Bromine Specialties and Refining Solutions. 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 2015 and 2014 have been recast to reflect the change in segments noted above. The “All Other” category comprises three operating segments that did not fit into any of our core businesses subsequent to the acquisition of Rockwood: minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals, fine chemistry services and metal sulfides. During the first quarter of 2016 , we completed the sales of the metal sulfides business and the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business. 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. The Company’s chief operating decision maker uses earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, as adjusted on a consistent basis for certain non-recurring or unusual items such as acquisition and integration related costs, utilization of inventory markup, gains or losses on sales of businesses, restructuring charges, facility divestiture charges, non-operating pension and OPEB items and other significant non-recurring items (“adjusted EBITDA”), in a balanced manner and on a segment basis to assess the ongoing performance of the Company’s business segments and to allocate resources. In addition, management uses adjusted EBITDA for business planning purposes and as a significant component in the calculation of performance-based compensation for management and other employees. 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 is a financial measure that is not required by, or presented in accordance with, U.S. GAAP. 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, or any other financial measure reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Net sales: Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 968,216 $ 834,590 $ 312,788 Bromine Specialties 792,425 775,729 808,857 Refining Solutions 732,137 729,261 852,139 All Other 180,988 471,434 471,764 Corporate 3,437 15,415 — Total net sales $ 2,677,203 $ 2,826,429 $ 2,445,548 Adjusted EBITDA: Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 363,360 $ 312,867 $ 81,596 Bromine Specialties 226,926 222,653 224,976 Refining Solutions 238,963 197,595 256,485 All Other 14,772 53,993 73,973 Corporate (85,804 ) (31,108 ) (74,875 ) Total adjusted EBITDA $ 758,217 $ 756,000 $ 562,155 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 U.S. GAAP (in thousands): Lithium and Advanced Materials Bromine Specialties Refining Solutions Reportable Segments Total All Other Corporate Consolidated Total 2016 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 261,394 $ 187,364 $ 202,874 $ 651,632 $ 131,301 $ (139,258 ) $ 643,675 Depreciation and amortization 101,966 39,562 36,089 177,617 7,302 6,056 190,975 (Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net (a) — — — — (123,831 ) 1,533 (122,298 ) Acquisition and integration related costs (b) — — — — — 57,384 57,384 Interest and financing expenses — — — — — 65,181 65,181 Income tax expense — — — — — 96,263 96,263 Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) — — — — — (202,131 ) (202,131 ) Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — 25,589 25,589 Other (c) — — — — — 3,579 3,579 Adjusted EBITDA $ 363,360 $ 226,926 $ 238,963 $ 829,249 $ 14,772 $ (85,804 ) $ 758,217 2015 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 148,821 $ 186,474 $ 161,585 $ 496,880 $ 32,781 $ (194,755 ) $ 334,906 Depreciation and amortization 84,069 36,179 34,039 154,287 18,183 8,703 181,173 Utilization of inventory markup (d) 79,977 — — 79,977 3,029 — 83,006 Restructuring and other, net (e) — — — — — (6,804 ) (6,804 ) Acquisition and integration related costs (b) — — — — — 132,299 132,299 Interest and financing expenses — — — — — 81,650 81,650 Income tax expense — — — — — 11,134 11,134 Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) — — — — — (32,476 ) (32,476 ) Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — (35,300 ) (35,300 ) Other (f) — — 1,971 1,971 — 4,441 6,412 Adjusted EBITDA $ 312,867 $ 222,653 $ 197,595 $ 733,115 $ 53,993 $ (31,108 ) $ 756,000 2014 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 65,806 $ 189,059 $ 223,815 $ 478,680 $ 60,495 $ (405,859 ) $ 133,316 Depreciation and amortization 15,790 35,917 32,670 84,377 13,478 2,552 100,407 Restructuring and other, net (e) — — — — — 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 from discontinued operations (net of tax) — — — — — 69,531 69,531 Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — 125,462 125,462 Other (f) — — — — — 17,492 17,492 Adjusted EBITDA $ 81,596 $ 224,976 $ 256,485 $ 563,057 $ 73,973 $ (74,875 ) $ 562,155 (a) See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (b) See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (c) Includes amounts recorded in (1) Research and development expenses related to the write-off of fixed assets of $1.4 million ; (2) Selling, general and administrative expenses related to the net loss on the sales of properties of $0.9 million and (3) Other income (expenses), net related to environmental charges related to a site formerly owned by Albemarle of $2.4 million , partially offset by a gain related to a previously disposed of site in China of $1.1 million . (d) 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 $103.4 million . The inventory markup was expensed over the estimated remaining selling period. For the year ended December 31, 2015, $55.9 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. (e) See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other,” for additional information. (f) 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. As of December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Identifiable assets: Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 3,809,883 $ 3,658,669 $ 351,175 Bromine Specialties 724,218 699,929 734,071 Refining Solutions 913,923 937,445 1,100,361 Discontinued Operations — 3,208,902 — All Other 130,595 517,695 268,555 Corporate (a) 2,582,588 575,314 2,748,275 Total identifiable assets $ 8,161,207 $ 9,597,954 $ 5,202,437 Goodwill: Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 1,348,261 $ 1,267,505 $ 21,697 Bromine Specialties 20,319 20,319 20,319 Refining Solutions 164,866 172,728 192,657 All Other 6,586 — 8,589 Total goodwill $ 1,540,032 $ 1,460,552 $ 243,262 (a) As of December 31, 2016, Corporate included the net proceeds received from the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business completed on December 14, 2016, less the repayment of the term loans and commercial paper using those proceeds. 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 2, “Acquisitions,” Note 3, “Divestitures,” and Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” for additional details about these transactions. Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Depreciation and amortization: Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 101,966 $ 84,069 $ 15,790 Bromine Specialties 39,562 36,179 35,917 Refining Solutions 36,089 34,039 32,670 Discontinued Operations 35,194 78,903 3,165 All Other 7,302 18,183 13,478 Corporate 6,056 8,703 2,552 Total depreciation and amortization $ 226,169 $ 260,076 $ 103,572 Capital expenditures: Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 91,967 $ 104,344 $ 12,888 Bromine Specialties 46,414 54,994 39,392 Refining Solutions 27,546 28,836 49,219 Discontinued Operations 19,281 23,738 — All Other 9,251 13,054 9,053 Corporate 2,195 2,683 24 Total capital expenditures $ 196,654 $ 227,649 $ 110,576 Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Net Sales: United States $ 797,267 $ 911,519 $ 884,373 Foreign (a) 1,879,936 1,914,910 1,561,175 Total $ 2,677,203 $ 2,826,429 $ 2,445,548 (a) In 2016, net sales to China represented 13% of total net sales. No net sales in any other 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, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Long-Lived Assets: United States $ 850,689 $ 800,214 $ 698,863 Chile 922,878 916,965 — Netherlands 145,917 155,128 167,965 Jordan 227,222 230,460 227,805 Australia 288,553 280,222 — Brazil 46,380 39,299 59,474 Germany 117,027 137,890 75,813 China 31,564 4,773 5,310 France 39,470 39,344 37,347 Korea 65,963 72,685 80,362 United Kingdom 3,665 3,665 3,665 Other foreign countries 54,271 55,234 48,819 Total $ 2,793,599 $ 2,735,879 $ 1,405,423 Net sales to external customers by product category in each of the segments consists of the following: Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Lithium and Advanced Materials: Lithium $ 668,852 $ 508,844 $ — Performance Catalyst Solutions 299,364 325,746 312,788 Total Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 968,216 $ 834,590 $ 312,788 Bromine Specialties $ 792,425 $ 775,729 $ 808,857 Refining Solutions $ 732,137 $ 729,261 $ 852,139

Quarterly Financial Summary (Un

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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) 2016 Net sales $ 657,211 $ 669,327 $ 654,010 $ 696,655 Gross profit $ 242,534 $ 248,104 $ 238,972 $ 240,966 Gain on sales of businesses, net (a) $ (121,324 ) $ (974 ) $ — $ — Acquisition and integration related costs (b) $ 18,558 $ 19,030 $ 6,749 $ 13,047 Net income from continuing operations $ 218,236 $ 95,586 $ 114,512 $ 50,304 Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) (c) 17,312 (398,340 ) 23,185 559,974 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (7,362 ) (12,067 ) (9,477 ) (8,188 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 228,186 $ (314,821 ) $ 128,220 $ 602,090 Basic earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 1.88 $ 0.74 $ 0.93 $ 0.37 Discontinued operations 0.15 (3.54 ) 0.21 4.98 $ 2.03 $ (2.80 ) $ 1.14 $ 5.35 Shares used to compute basic earnings per share 112,260 112,339 112,429 112,487 Diluted earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 1.87 $ 0.74 $ 0.93 $ 0.37 Discontinued operations 0.15 (3.52 ) 0.20 4.93 $ 2.02 $ (2.78 ) $ 1.13 $ 5.30 Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share 112,770 113,175 113,448 113,563 First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 Net sales $ 692,313 $ 718,290 $ 693,216 $ 722,610 Gross profit $ 191,384 $ 212,031 $ 219,045 $ 237,773 Restructuring and other, net (d) $ — $ — $ (6,804 ) $ — Acquisition and integration related costs (b) $ 57,825 $ 22,832 $ 36,514 $ 15,128 Net income from continuing operations (e) $ 49,253 $ 49,218 $ 59,842 $ 169,275 (Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax) (2,104 ) 10,148 11,030 13,402 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (4,034 ) (7,219 ) (5,480 ) (8,425 ) Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 43,115 $ 52,147 $ 65,392 $ 174,252 Basic earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations (e) $ 0.42 $ 0.37 $ 0.48 $ 1.43 Discontinued operations (0.02 ) 0.09 0.10 0.12 $ 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 (loss) per share: Continuing operations (e) $ 0.42 $ 0.37 $ 0.48 $ 1.43 Discontinued operations (0.02 ) 0.09 0.10 0.12 $ 0.40 $ 0.46 $ 0.58 $ 1.55 Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share 108,464 112,607 112,544 112,608 (a) Included in Gain on sales of businesses, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 is $11.5 million and $112.3 million related to the sales of the metal sulfides business and the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business, respectively, both of which closed in the first quarter of 2016. In addition, Gain on sales of businesses, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 includes a loss of $1.5 million on the sale of our wafer reclaim business. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (b) See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (c) Included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the second quarter of 2016 is a nonrecurring, non-cash tax charge of $416.7 million related to the change in the Company’s assertion over book and tax basis differences for certain entities included in the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business. In the fourth quarter of 2016, this non-cash tax charge was reversed as a result of the completion of the sale. In addition, the fourth quarter of 2016 includes an after-tax gain of $135.0 million as a result of the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business. (d) See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.” (e) The fourth quarter of 2015 includes an income tax benefit of $43.1 million primarily related to the release of certain tax reserves associated with lapses in statutes of limitations and audit closures. 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, 2016, actuarial losses were recognized as follows: fourth quarter— $26.7 million ( $18.3 million after income taxes) as a result of the annual remeasurement process. During the year ended December 31, 2015, actuarial gains were recognized as follows: fourth quarter— $30.1 million ( $21.4 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, 2016
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 its consolidated subsidiaries. For entities that we control and are the primary beneficiary, but own less than 100%, we record the minority ownership as noncontrolling interest. 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 Effective January 1, 2016, we realigned our organizational structure to split our former Performance Chemicals reportable segment into two reportable segments: (1) Lithium and Advanced Materials and (2) Bromine Specialties. As a result, our three reportable segments include: Lithium and Advanced Materials, Bromine Specialties and Refining Solutions. 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 December 14, 2016, the Company closed the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business to BASF SE. In accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, the Company began accounting for this business as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income and excluded the business from segment results for all periods presented. Related assets and liabilities are classified as held for sale as of December 31, 2015 in accordance with accounting standards for reporting discontinued operations. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. 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. 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 primarily in Refining Solutions. 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 generally 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. We evaluate our equity method investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of such investments may be impaired. If a decline in the value of an equity method investment is determined to be other than temporary, a loss is recorded in earnings in the current period. Our Saudi Organometallic Chemicals Company (“SOCC”) joint venture in Saudi Arabia, included in our Lithium and Advanced Materials segment, is emerging from the start-up phase and experienced a small net loss as of December 31, 2016, indicating the carrying value potentially may be impaired. As a result, we assessed the recoverability of the investment and related balances in this venture as of December 31, 2016. As of December 31, 2016, the carrying amount of our equity interest in SOCC was $7.5 million and we had loans receivable from this venture that totaled $30.0 million . Based on our assessment, we expect to recover the carrying amount of our equity investment and related balances, and concluded that no other-than-temporary impairment exists as of December 31, 2016. In order to fully recover our investment and related balances, we and our venture partner are actively developing strategies to reduce costs and increase volumes at the venture, which would improve the financial performance of the investment. Certain mutual fund investments are accounted for as trading equities and are marked-to-market on a periodic 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 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, 2016 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, 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 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, 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 monthly basis. The market-related value of assets equals the actual market value as of the date of measurement. During 2016 , 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 2016 , 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, 2016 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 United Kingdom (“U.K.”), 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 U.K. 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 2015, the Society of Actuaries (“SOA”) published an updated Mortality Improvement Scale, MP-2015. The updated improvement scale incorporated two additional years of mortality data and reflected a trend toward somewhat smaller increases 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. In October 2016, the SOA published an updated Mortality Improvement Scale, MP-2016. The updated improvement scale incorporates three additional years of mortality data (2012 – 2014) and a modification of two other input values to improve the model’s year-over-year stability. We utilized the same base mortality, SOA RP-2014 Adjusted to 2006 Total Dataset Mortality, but we revised our mortality assumption to incorporate the MP-2016 Mortality Improvement Scale for purposes of measuring our U.S. pension and OPEB obligations at December 31, 2016.
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”), 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 reinvested 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 reinvested.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income	Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income comprises principally 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 $2.4 million , $51.8 million and ($3.7) million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , 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, which was repatriated using the applicable transaction rates during the first quarter of 2015.
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, 2016 and 2015 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 May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“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. In March 2016 and April 2016, the FASB issued amendments to this new guidance that provides clarification about principal versus agent considerations, identification of performance obligations and accounting for the licensing of intellectual property. In May 2016, the FASB issued an amendment to the guidance that provides clarification about collectability, noncash consideration, presentation of sales tax, and transition. In December 2016, the FASB issued an amendment to the guidance that provides narrow-scope improvements and practical expedient regarding collectability, presentation of sales tax collected from customers, non-cash considerations, contract modifications at transition, completed contracts at transition and other technical corrections. 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 expect to adopt the new standard in the first quarter of 2018 using the modified retrospective method. We have made significant progress in evaluating our existing contracts and accounting policies to determine the impact this standard will have on the consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. 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 became effective on January 1, 2016 and did not have a material effect on our consolidated 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 became effective on January 1, 2016. See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt,” for additional information. 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 became effective on January 1, 2016 and did not have a material effect on our consolidated 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 guidance became effective on January 1, 2016 and did not have a material effect on our consolidated 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 became effective on January 1, 2016 and did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. See Note 15, “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits,” and Note 23, “Fair Value Measurement,” for additional information. 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 do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on our financial statements. 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. The impact of this new requirement on our financial statements is being assessed and is not yet known. In March 2016, the FASB issued accounting guidance that simplifies several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment awards. Among other things, this guidance requires all tax effects related to share-based payment awards to be recognized as income tax expense or benefit on the income statement, thus eliminating all additional paid-in capital pools. An entity should recognize excess tax benefits regardless of whether the benefit reduces income taxes payable in the current period. For interim reporting purposes, excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies should be accounted for as discrete items in the reporting period in which they occur. Additionally, this new guidance requires all tax related cash flows resulting from share-based payments to be presented as an operating activity on the statement of cash flows rather than as a financing activity. This guidance will be effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. We do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on our financial statements. In August 2016, the FASB issued accounting guidance which clarifies the proper presentation and classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments in the statement of cash flows. The new guidance addresses cash flow issues including, but not limited to, debt prepayments or debt extinguishment costs and distributions received from equity method investments. This guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including 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 November 2016, the FASB issued accounting guidance that requires restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents to be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning and end of period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. This guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including 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 January 2017, the FASB issued accounting guidance to clarify the definition of a business for determining whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions (or disposals) of assets or businesses. This guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years, and is to be applied on a prospective basis. Early adoption is permitted. We currently do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on our financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued accounting guidance to simplify the accounting for goodwill impairment. The guidance removes Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test, which requires a reporting unit to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill by assigning the fair value of a reporting unit to all of its assets and liabilities as if that reporting unit has been acquired in a business combination. A goodwill impairment will now be the amount by which a reporting unit’s carrying value exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of goodwill. All other goodwill impairment guidance will remain unchanged. Entities will continue to have the option to perform a qualitative assessment to determine if a quantitative impairment test is necessary. This guidance will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years, and is to be applied on a prospective basis. Early adoption is permitted for goodwill impairment tests performed after January 1, 2017. We do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on our financial statements.

Acquisitions (Tables)

Acquisitions (Tables) - Rockwood Holdings, Inc.	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition	The following table summarizes the allocation of the purchase price paid and the amounts of assets acquired and liabilities assumed for the Rockwood acquisition based upon estimated fair values at the date of acquisition (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 290,496 Other current assets 86,267 Property, plant and equipment 1,383,480 Investments 529,453 Other assets 25,538 Definite-lived intangible assets: Patents and technology 227,840 Trade names and trademarks 234,610 Customer lists and relationships 1,280,142 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trade names and trademarks 104,380 Other 26,670 Current liabilities (406,532 ) Long-term debt (1,319,132 ) Pension benefits (316,086 ) Other noncurrent liabilities (195,052 ) Deferred income taxes (845,884 ) Noncontrolling interests (17,582 ) Total identifiable net assets 2,906,694 Goodwill 2,818,627 Total net assets acquired (a) $ 5,725,321 (a) Total net assets acquired includes amounts for the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, which is reported as discontinued operations. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma 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 $103.4 million of charges related to the utilization of the inventory markup as further described in Note 25, “Segment and Geographic Area Information.” The pro forma results do not include adjustments related to cost savings or other synergies anticipated as a result of the Merger. In addition, pro forma amounts are not adjusted to reflect the Chemetall Surface Treatment business as discontinued operations. 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 $ 527,997 $ 353,313 Pro forma Net income per share: Basic $ 4.75 $ 3.13 Diluted $ 4.73 $ 3.12

Divestitures (Tables)

Divestitures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block]	Depreciation and amortization and capital expenditures from discontinued operations for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Depreciation and amortization $ 35,194 $ 78,903 Capital expenditures $ 19,281 $ 23,738 A summary of results of discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 is as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2014 Net sales $ 154,273 Loss from discontinued operations $ (90,439 ) Income tax benefit (20,908 ) Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) $ (69,531 ) The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities of these businesses classified as held for sale at December 31, 2015 , were as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2015 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 The major components of Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Net sales $ 813,285 $ 824,906 Cost of goods sold 416,934 488,267 Operating expenses, net (a) 268,402 239,316 Interest and financing expenses (b) 38,227 51,072 Other income, net (2,485 ) (4,214 ) Gain on sale of discontinued operations (387,980 ) — Income before income taxes 480,187 50,465 Income tax expense (c) 278,056 17,989 Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) $ 202,131 $ 32,476 (a) Operating expenses, net for discontinued operations includes mark-to market actuarial (losses) gains of ($8.5) million and $8.9 million during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. (b) Interest and financing expenses included the allocation of interest expense not directly attributab le to other operations as well as interest expense related to debt to be assumed by the buyer. The allocation of interest expense to discontinued operations was based on the ratio of net assets held for sale to the sum of total net assets plus consolidated debt. There was no interest expense allocated to discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 , as the Chemetall Surface Treatment business was not owned by the Company during this period. (c) Income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2016 included a charge of $253.0 million related to the gain on sale of discontinued operations. The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities for the Chemetall Surface Treatment business classified as held for sale at December 31, 2015 , were as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2015 Assets Current assets $ 237,447 Net property, plant and equipment 163,643 Goodwill 1,433,259 Other intangibles, net of amortization 1,349,179 All other noncurrent assets 25,374 Assets held for sale $ 3,208,902 Liabilities Current liabilities $ 200,892 Deferred income taxes 351,465 All other noncurrent liabilities 112,742 Liabilities held for sale $ 665,099

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform37

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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, 2016 2015 2014 Cash paid during the year for: Income taxes (net of refunds of $9,270, $7,333 and $6,035 in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively) (a) $ 143,404 $ 162,408 $ 56,174 Interest (net of capitalization) $ 96,948 $ 153,271 $ 33,604 Supplemental non-cash disclosures related to investing activities: Capital expenditures included in Accounts payable $ 33,622 $ 45,826 $ 20,373 (a) Cash paid for income taxes during 2015 included 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, 2016
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, 2016 2015 2014 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations Numerator: Net income from continuing operations $ 478,638 $ 327,588 $ 230,437 Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (37,094 ) (25,158 ) (27,590 ) Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 441,544 $ 302,430 $ 202,847 Denominator: Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share 112,379 111,182 78,696 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations $ 3.93 $ 2.72 $ 2.57 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations Numerator: Net income from continuing operations $ 478,638 $ 327,588 $ 230,437 Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (37,094 ) (25,158 ) (27,590 ) Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 441,544 $ 302,430 $ 202,847 Denominator: Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share 112,379 111,182 78,696 Incremental shares under stock compensation plans 860 374 406 Weighted-average common shares for diluted earnings per share 113,239 111,556 79,102 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations $ 3.90 $ 2.71 $ 2.57

Other Accounts Receivable (Tabl

Other Accounts Receivable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Receivables [Abstract]
Other Accounts Receivable	Other accounts receivable consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Value added tax/consumption tax $ 15,324 $ 23,758 Other 26,661 51,231 Total (a) $ 41,985 $ 74,989 (a) As of December 31, 2015, $8.3 million of Other accounts receivable were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Inventories (Tables)

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Breakdown of Inventories	The following table provides a breakdown of inventories at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Finished goods $ 289,102 $ 264,025 Raw materials and work in process (a) 109,706 122,038 Stores, supplies and other 51,455 53,450 Total inventories (b) $ 450,263 $ 439,513 (a) Included $47.1 million and $39.1 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, of work in process related to the Lithium product category. (b) As of December 31, 2015, $162.8 million of Inventories were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Other Current Assets (Tables)

Other Current Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Assets [Abstract]
Other Current Assets	Other current assets consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Income tax receivables $ 15,085 $ 22,649 Prepaid expenses 42,240 38,609 Other 1,254 1,664 Total (a) $ 58,579 $ 62,922 (a) As of December 31, 2015, $11.9 million of Other current assets were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Property, Plant and Equipment (

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment, at Cost	Property, plant and equipment, at cost, consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): Useful Lives (Years) December 31, 2016 2015 Land — $ 120,842 $ 120,702 Land improvements 5 – 30 59,387 57,833 Buildings and improvements 10 – 45 256,603 236,577 Machinery and equipment (a) 2 – 45 2,501,481 2,216,085 Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs 7 – 60 654,006 652,871 Construction in progress — 318,203 416,404 Total (b) $ 3,910,522 $ 3,700,472 (a) 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. (b) As of December 31, 2015, $424.1 million of Property, plant and equipment, at cost, was classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Investments (Tables)

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Investments [Abstract]
Investment Balances	The following table details our investment balances at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Joint ventures (a) $ 429,794 $ 411,119 Nonmarketable securities 169 208 Marketable equity securities 27,570 24,257 Total $ 457,533 $ 435,584 (a) Balance at December 31, 2015 excludes our investment in Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG (“Magnifin”) and two investments included in the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, which are included in Assets held for sale. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
Ownership Positions in Significant Unconsolidated Investments	Our ownership positions in significant unconsolidated investments are shown below: December 31, 2016 2015 2014 * Windfield Holdings Pty. Ltd. - a joint venture with Sichuan Tianqi Lithium Industries, Inc., that mines lithium ore and produces lithium concentrate 49 % 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 (a) — % 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 % (a) On February 1, 2016, we sold our investment in Magnifin as part of the sale of the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
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, 2016 2015 Summary of Balance Sheet Information: Current assets $ 383,203 $ 331,630 Noncurrent assets 913,643 935,790 Total assets $ 1,296,846 $ 1,267,420 Current liabilities $ 138,474 $ 106,966 Noncurrent liabilities 319,801 339,604 Total liabilities $ 458,275 $ 446,570 Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Summary of Statements of Income Information: Net sales $ 590,980 $ 560,376 $ 499,394 Gross profit $ 267,241 $ 253,569 $ 164,063 Income before income taxes $ 189,016 $ 157,501 $ 101,983 Net income $ 126,872 $ 111,491 $ 71,466

Other Assets (Tables)

Other Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other Assets	Other assets consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Deferred income taxes—noncurrent (a) $ 61,132 $ 75,813 Assets related to unrecognized tax benefits (a) 15,076 50,875 Long-term advances to joint ventures (b) 31,776 31,780 Other 34,336 35,930 Total (c) $ 142,320 $ 194,398 (a) See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.” (b) See Note 10, “Investments.” (c) As of December 31, 2015, $8.6 million of Other Assets were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Changes in Goodwill	The following table summarizes the changes in goodwill by reportable segment for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): Lithium and Advanced Materials Bromine Specialties Refining Solutions All Other Total Balance at December 31, 2014 (a) $ 21,697 $ 20,319 $ 192,657 $ 8,589 $ 243,262 Acquisition of Rockwood 1,293,467 — — 41,151 1,334,618 Reclass to assets held for sale (b) — — — (46,794 ) (46,794 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments (47,659 ) — (19,929 ) (2,946 ) (70,534 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 (a)(c) 1,267,505 20,319 172,728 — 1,460,552 Acquisition of Rockwood (d) (1,706 ) — — — (1,706 ) Other acquisitions (e) 113,555 — — — 113,555 Reclass from assets held for sale (f) — — — 6,586 6,586 Foreign currency translation adjustments (31,093 ) — (7,862 ) — (38,955 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 1,348,261 $ 20,319 $ 164,866 $ 6,586 $ 1,540,032 (a) The December 31, 2015 and 2014 balances have been recast to reflect a change in segments. See Note 25, “Segment and Geographic Area Information,” for further details. (b) Represents Goodwill of the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals, fine chemistry services and metal sulfides businesses. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (c) As of December 31, 2015, $1.5 billion of Goodwill was classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (d) Represents final purchase price adjustments for the Rockwood acquisition recorded for the year ended December 31, 2016. Excludes $3.2 million of final purchase price adjustments for businesses reported as discontinued operations. (e) Represents preliminary purchase price adjustments for the Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. acquisition recorded for the year ended December 31, 2016. See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (f) Represents Goodwill of the fine chemistry services business, which was reported in Assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015, but reclassified back to Goodwill during the year end December 31, 2016. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
Other Intangibles	Other intangibles consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): Customer Lists and Relationships Trade Names and Trademarks (a) Patents and Technology Other Total Gross Asset Value Balance at December 31, 2014 $ 48,479 $ 17,555 $ 40,398 $ 23,441 $ 129,873 Acquisition of Rockwood 386,330 — 58,230 — 444,560 Reclass to assets held for sale (b) (16,608 ) — (54,060 ) (1,454 ) (72,122 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (19,476 ) (632 ) (4,424 ) (4,208 ) (28,740 ) Balance at December 31, 2015 398,725 16,923 40,144 17,779 473,571 Reclass from assets held for sale (c) — — — 1,454 1,454 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (10,832 ) (409 ) (1,710 ) (389 ) (13,340 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 387,893 $ 16,514 $ 38,434 $ 18,844 $ 461,685 Accumulated Amortization Balance at December 31, 2014 $ (22,931 ) $ (7,912 ) $ (32,831 ) $ (22,074 ) $ (85,748 ) Amortization (11,441 ) (423 ) (4,654 ) (401 ) (16,919 ) Reclass to assets held for sale (b) 596 — 3,880 1,322 5,798 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 1,120 249 1,597 4,200 7,166 Balance at December 31, 2015 (32,656 ) (8,086 ) (32,008 ) (16,953 ) (89,703 ) Amortization (18,034 ) — (574 ) (431 ) (19,039 ) Reclass from assets held for sale (c) — — — (1,322 ) (1,322 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 1,525 134 899 385 2,943 Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (49,165 ) $ (7,952 ) $ (31,683 ) $ (18,321 ) $ (107,121 ) Net Book Value at December 31, 2015 (d) $ 366,069 $ 8,837 $ 8,136 $ 826 $ 383,868 Net Book Value at December 31, 2016 $ 338,728 $ 8,562 $ 6,751 $ 523 $ 354,564 (a) Balances as of December 31, 2015 and 2016 include only indefinite-lived intangible assets. (b) Represents Other intangibles and related amortization of the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals, fine chemistry services and metal sulfides businesses. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (c) Represents Other intangibles and related amortization of the fine chemistry services business, which was reported in Assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015, but reclassified back to Other intangibles during the year end December 31, 2016. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (d) As of December 31, 2015, $1.4 billion of Other intangibles, net of amortization were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3 “Divestitures,” for additional information.
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 2017 $ 20,714 2018 $ 22,019 2019 $ 22,327 2020 $ 21,671 2021 $ 21,392

Accrued Expenses (Tables)

Accrued Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses	Accrued expenses consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Employee benefits, payroll and related taxes $ 92,478 $ 91,970 Obligations in connection with acquisitions (a) 47,082 128,881 Other (b) 182,605 92,408 Total (c) $ 322,165 $ 313,259 (a) As of December 31, 2016 included accruals related to net working capital amounts arising from the acquisition of the lithium business of Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. The balance as of December 31, 2015 included 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. (c) As of December 31, 2015, $112.1 million of Accrued expenses were classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Long-Term Debt (Tables)

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	Long-term debt consisted of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Term loan facilities, net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $2,833 at December 31, 2015 $ — $ 1,247,167 1.875% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $7,823 at December 31, 2016 and $9,904 at December 31, 2015 719,617 759,151 3.00% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $1,286 at December 31, 2016 and $1,726 at December 31, 2015 248,714 248,274 4.15% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $3,859 at December 31, 2016 and $4,346 at December 31, 2015 421,141 420,654 4.50% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $2,380 at December 31, 2016 and $2,982 at December 31, 2015 347,620 347,018 5.45% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $4,313 at December 31, 2016 and $4,468 at December 31, 2015 345,687 345,532 Commercial paper notes 247,503 351,349 Variable-rate foreign bank loans 38,939 77,452 Variable-rate domestic bank loans — 20,479 Miscellaneous 41 81 Total long-term debt (a) 2,369,262 3,817,157 Less amounts due within one year 247,544 674,994 Long-term debt, less current portion $ 2,121,718 $ 3,142,163 (a) As of December 31, 2015, $20.3 million of long-term debt was classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Pension Plans and Other Postr48

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Financial Assets Accounted for at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	The following tables set forth the assets of our pension and postretirement plans that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 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) $ 146,683 $ 143,987 $ 2,696 $ — International Equity (b) 116,649 83,839 32,810 — Fixed Income (c) 255,401 230,309 25,092 — Absolute Return Measured at Net Asset Value (d) 86,112 — — — Cash 2,112 2,112 — — Total Pension Assets $ 606,957 $ 460,247 $ 60,598 $ — Postretirement Assets: Fixed Income (c) $ 2,232 $ — $ 2,232 $ — 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) $ 163,408 $ 161,075 $ 2,333 $ — International Equity (b) 115,949 84,019 31,930 — Fixed Income (c) 254,560 231,411 23,149 — Absolute Return Measured at Net Asset Value (d) 80,746 — — — Cash 5,332 5,332 — — Total Pension Assets $ 619,995 $ 481,837 $ 57,412 $ — 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. Holdings in private investment companies are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share as a practical expedient and have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy as a result of the adoption of new accounting guidance effective January 1, 2016 on a retrospective basis. The fair value amounts of $86.1 million and $80.7 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, are included in this table to permit reconciliation to the reconciliation of plan assets table above. See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” for additional information.
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 42 % Absolute return 13 % Other 1 %
Current Forecast of Benefit Payments, which Reflect Expected Future Service	The current forecast of benefit payments, which reflects expected future service, amounts to (in millions): U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Other Postretirement Benefits 2017 $ 39.6 $ 9.2 $ 4.7 2018 $ 40.9 $ 8.7 $ 4.5 2019 $ 41.9 $ 8.2 $ 4.3 2020 $ 42.7 $ 9.0 $ 4.0 2021 $ 43.1 $ 9.6 $ 3.8 2022-2026 $ 219.2 $ 51.2 $ 18.2
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, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Change in benefit obligations: Benefit obligation at January 1 $ 682,839 $ 245,747 $ 729,652 $ 53,112 Service cost 1,028 3,133 1,233 3,909 Interest cost 30,514 6,570 30,235 6,405 Plan amendments — — — 864 Actuarial loss (gain) 7,357 28,083 (54,140 ) (30,978 ) Benefits paid (56,050 ) (9,793 ) (37,512 ) (11,283 ) Acquisitions — — 13,371 270,618 Divestitures — (6,372 ) — — Reclass to liabilities held for sale — — — (26,608 ) Employee contributions — 245 — 256 Foreign exchange gain — (21,724 ) — (20,105 ) Settlements/curtailments — (427 ) — (161 ) Other — 818 — (282 ) Benefit obligation at December 31 $ 665,688 $ 246,280 $ 682,839 $ 245,747 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at January 1 $ 555,084 $ 64,911 $ 598,250 $ 9,444 Actual return on plan assets 37,725 12,534 (16,306 ) 630 Employer contributions 1,323 10,911 1,398 11,864 Benefits paid (56,050 ) (9,793 ) (37,512 ) (11,283 ) Acquisitions — — 9,254 56,418 Employee contributions — 245 — 256 Foreign exchange loss — (10,492 ) — (2,189 ) Settlements/curtailments — — — (161 ) Other — 559 — (68 ) Fair value of plan assets at December 31 $ 538,082 $ 68,875 $ 555,084 $ 64,911 Funded status at December 31 $ (127,606 ) $ (177,405 ) $ (127,755 ) $ (180,836 ) December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets: Current liabilities (accrued expenses) $ (1,100 ) $ (5,216 ) $ (1,110 ) $ (7,498 ) Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits) (126,506 ) (172,189 ) (126,645 ) (173,338 ) Net pension liability $ (127,606 ) $ (177,405 ) $ (127,755 ) $ (180,836 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss): Prior service benefit $ (136 ) $ (322 ) $ (211 ) $ (1,046 ) Net amount recognized $ (136 ) $ (322 ) $ (211 ) $ (1,046 ) Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate 4.43 % 2.00 % 4.67 % 2.76 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.18 % — % 3.16 %
Components of Pension and Postretirement Benefits Expense	The components of pension benefits cost (credit) from continuing operations are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 December 31, 2014 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Service cost $ 1,028 $ 3,133 $ 1,233 $ 3,909 $ 7,029 $ 1,746 Interest cost 30,514 6,570 30,235 6,405 30,491 1,571 Expected return on assets (36,445 ) (4,027 ) (40,495 ) (3,670 ) (39,714 ) (427 ) Actuarial loss (gain) 5,988 19,418 2,665 (27,043 ) 116,705 10,270 Amortization of prior service benefit 75 859 75 43 (727 ) 50 Total net pension benefits cost (credit) (a) $ 1,160 $ 25,953 $ (6,287 ) $ (20,356 ) $ 113,784 $ 13,210 Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 4.67 % 2.76 % 4.19 % 2.22 % 5.14 % 3.41 % Expected return on plan assets 6.89 % 6.66 % 6.88 % 5.76 % 6.91 % 4.00 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.16 % — % 3.15 % 3.50 % 3.16 % (a) For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, $10.8 million and $6.2 million , respectively, of net pension benefits credit is included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
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 2017 are as follows (in thousands): U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Amortization of prior service benefit $ 75 $ 36
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, 2016 2015 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Change in benefit obligations: Benefit obligation at January 1 $ 56,499 $ 64,500 Service cost 115 137 Interest cost 2,483 2,573 Actuarial loss (gain) 1,529 (5,690 ) Benefits paid (4,485 ) (5,021 ) Benefit obligation at December 31 $ 56,141 $ 56,499 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at January 1 $ 3,292 $ 4,439 Actual return on plan assets 442 280 Employer contributions 2,983 3,594 Benefits paid (4,485 ) (5,021 ) Fair value of plan assets at December 31 $ 2,232 $ 3,292 Funded status at December 31 $ (53,909 ) $ (53,207 ) December 31, 2016 2015 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets: Current liabilities (accrued expenses) $ (3,371 ) $ (3,560 ) Noncurrent liabilities (postretirement benefits) (50,538 ) (49,647 ) Net postretirement liability $ (53,909 ) $ (53,207 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss): Prior service benefit $ 143 $ 239 Net amount recognized $ 143 $ 239 Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate 4.35 % 4.59 % Rate of compensation increase 3.50 % 3.50 %
Components of Pension and Postretirement Benefits Expense	The components of postretirement benefits cost (credit) from continuing operations are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Service cost $ 115 $ 137 $ 216 Interest cost 2,483 2,573 3,040 Expected return on assets (187 ) (263 ) (342 ) Actuarial loss (gain) 1,275 (5,707 ) 3,868 Amortization of prior service benefit (95 ) (95 ) (95 ) Total net postretirement benefits cost (credit) (a) $ 3,591 $ (3,355 ) $ 6,687 Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 4.59 % 4.15 % 5.03 % Expected return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % Rate of compensation increase 3.50 % 3.50 % 3.50 % (a) For the year ended December 31, 2015, $2.6 million of net postretirement benefits credit is included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
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 2017 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, 2016
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other Noncurrent Liabilities	Other noncurrent liabilities consist of the following at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions (a) $ 27,919 $ 101,677 Executive deferred compensation plan obligation 22,037 21,631 Environmental liabilities (b) 32,595 29,993 Asset retirement obligations (b) 36,296 37,230 Tax indemnification liability (c) 38,255 — Other (d) 37,708 48,573 Total (e) $ 194,810 $ 239,104 (a) See Note 20, “Income Taxes.” (b) See Note 17, “Commitments and Contingencies.” (c) Indemnification of certain income and non-income tax liabilities associated with the Chemetall Surface Treatment entities sold. (d) No individual component exceeds 5% of total liabilities. (e) As of December 31, 2015, $20.2 million of Other noncurrent liabilities were classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Balance, beginning of year $ 31,436 $ 9,235 $ 16,599 Expenditures (2,667 ) (4,039 ) (4,548 ) Acquisition of Rockwood — 34,626 — Divestitures — (1,826 ) (1,954 ) Accretion of discount 793 902 — Additions and revisions of estimates 4,004 150 34 Reclass to liabilities held for sale (a) — (5,253 ) — Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 1,353 (2,359 ) (896 ) Balance, end of year (b) 34,919 31,436 9,235 Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses 2,324 1,443 4,394 Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities $ 32,595 $ 29,993 $ 4,841 (a) Represents environmental liabilities of the metal sulfides and minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals businesses. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (b) As of December 31, 2015, $3.9 million of environmental liabilities were classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation	The following is a reconciliation of our beginning and ending asset retirement obligation balances for 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 Balance, beginning of year $ 37,230 $ 15,085 Acquisition of Rockwood — 17,265 Liabilities incurred — 3,636 Accretion of discount 1,354 1,289 Liabilities settled (370 ) — Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (1,918 ) (45 ) Balance, end of year $ 36,296 $ 37,230
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 2017 $ 12,065 2018 $ 10,153 2019 $ 7,878 2020 $ 6,369 2021 $ 5,490 Thereafter $ 19,240
Letters of Credit and Guarantee Agreements	The following table summarizes our letters of credit and guarantee agreements (in thousands): 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Thereafter Letters of credit and other guarantees $ 23,619 $ 5,052 $ 795 $ 199 $ 315 $ 21,357

Stock-based Compensation Expe51

Stock-based Compensation Expense (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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, 2016 : Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands) Outstanding at December 31, 2015 1,676,927 $ 50.76 6.1 $ 14,152 Granted 141,661 56.56 Exercised (212,343 ) 44.28 Forfeited (64,001 ) 59.03 Outstanding at December 31, 2016 1,542,244 $ 51.85 5.5 $ 52,798 Exercisable at December 31, 2016 858,291 $ 45.63 3.7 $ 34,720
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, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions: Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Dividend yield 1.84 % 1.80 % 1.71 % Volatility 33.08 % 32.92 % 33.03 % Average expected life (years) 6 6 6 Risk-free interest rate 1.96 % 2.17 % 2.94 % Fair value of options granted $ 16.06 $ 16.04 $ 19.56
Activity in Performance Unit Awards	The following table summarizes activity in performance unit awards as of and for the year ended December 31, 2016 : Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested, beginning of period 497,205 $ 62.04 Granted 139,948 78.03 Vested (80,970 ) 61.75 Forfeited (61,492 ) 63.61 Nonvested, end of period 494,691 66.42
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, 2016 : Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested, beginning of period 118,121 $ 58.62 Granted 156,662 56.43 Vested (53,875 ) 57.34 Forfeited (40,252 ) 54.65 Nonvested, end of period 180,656 57.99

Accumulated Other Comprehensi52

Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Components and Activity in Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) 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, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Foreign Currency Translation (a) Pension and Post-Retirement Benefits (b) Net Investment Hedge Interest Rate Swap (c) Total Accumulated other comprehensive income - balance at December 31, 2013 $ 115,758 $ 487 $ — $ — $ 116,245 Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (151,059 ) — 11,384 (21,174 ) (160,849 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (17,614 ) (487 ) — 212 (17,889 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (168,673 ) (487 ) 11,384 (20,962 ) (178,738 ) Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 80 — — — 80 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2014 $ (52,835 ) $ — $ 11,384 $ (20,962 ) $ (62,413 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (412,997 ) (774 ) 50,861 — (362,910 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income 27 16 — 2,101 2,144 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (412,970 ) (758 ) 50,861 2,101 (360,766 ) Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 1,891 — — — 1,891 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2015 $ (463,914 ) $ (758 ) $ 62,245 $ (18,861 ) $ (421,288 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (102,246 ) — 26,133 — (76,113 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income 81,421 834 — 2,116 84,371 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (20,825 ) 834 26,133 2,116 8,258 Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 618 — — — 618 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2016 $ (484,121 ) $ 76 $ 88,378 $ (16,745 ) $ (412,412 ) (a) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2016 are included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2016 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 and the sale of our Chemetall Surface Treatment business which closed on December 14, 2016. 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 (Loss) Income	The amount of income tax benefit (expense) allocated to each component of Other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31, 2016 , 2015 and 2014 is provided in the following tables (in thousands): Foreign Currency Translation Pension and Postretirement Benefits Net Investment Hedge (a) Interest Rate Swap (b) 2016 Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax $ (20,849 ) $ 839 $ 41,209 $ 3,336 Income tax benefit (expense) 24 (5 ) (15,076 ) (1,220 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax $ (20,825 ) $ 834 $ 26,133 $ 2,116 2015 Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax $ (451,762 ) $ (751 ) $ 80,746 $ 3,336 Income tax benefit (expense) 38,792 (7 ) (29,885 ) (1,235 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax $ (412,970 ) $ (758 ) $ 50,861 $ 2,101 2014 Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax $ (163,319 ) $ (772 ) $ 17,971 $ (33,091 ) Income tax (expense) benefit (5,354 ) 285 (6,587 ) 12,129 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax $ (168,673 ) $ (487 ) $ 11,384 $ (20,962 ) (a) Other comprehensive (loss) 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) income, 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, 2016
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, 2016 2015 2014 Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments: Domestic $ 49,630 $ (15,861 ) $ 45,689 Foreign 465,634 326,605 167,490 Total $ 515,264 $ 310,744 $ 213,179 Current income tax expense (benefit): Federal $ 7,717 $ 76,778 $ 36,708 State 1,407 (983 ) 3,209 Foreign 63,957 58,710 25,700 Total $ 73,081 $ 134,505 $ 65,617 Deferred income tax expense (benefit): Federal $ 12,230 $ (127,212 ) $ (32,890 ) State (1,715 ) (1,267 ) (1,139 ) Foreign 12,667 5,108 (13,104 ) Total $ 23,182 $ (123,371 ) $ (47,133 ) Total income tax expense $ 96,263 $ 11,134 $ 18,484
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 2016 2015 2014 Federal statutory rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % State taxes, net of federal tax benefit (0.1 ) 1.4 0.2 Change in valuation allowance 3.7 5.7 1.0 Impact of foreign earnings, net (a) (19.3 ) (22.0 ) (24.8 ) Subpart F income 0.2 7.8 1.2 Deemed repatriation of foreign income (b) — 105.5 — Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries (a)(b) 0.1 (114.8 ) (0.3 ) Nondeductible transaction costs — 2.0 — Depletion (1.0 ) (1.8 ) (2.4 ) Revaluation of unrecognized tax benefits/reserve requirements (c) (0.4 ) (14.4 ) (0.6 ) Domestic manufacturing tax deduction (0.9 ) (0.5 ) (2.2 ) Other items, net 1.4 (0.3 ) 1.6 Effective income tax rate 18.7 % 3.6 % 8.7 % (a) During 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , we received actual and deemed distributions of $308.4 million , $1.4 billion and $12.6 million , respectively, from various foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures, and realized an expense, net of foreign tax credits, of $67.5 million , $350.2 million and $2.8 million , respectively, related to the repatriation of these earnings, which impacted our effective tax rate. Our statutory rate is decreased by 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 7.3% , 8.2% , and 12.4% for 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively. (b) In prior years, we designated the undistributed earnings of substantially all of our foreign subsidiaries as indefinitely reinvested. In 2015, we were not indefinitely reinvested 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. (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 $42.7 million .
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, 2016 and 2015 consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2016 2015 Deferred tax assets: Accrued employee benefits $ 32,622 $ 25,519 Accrued expenses 10,065 24,581 Operating loss carryovers 91,934 116,686 Pensions 96,635 96,133 Tax credit carryovers 1,029 2,555 Other 34,866 35,557 Gross deferred tax assets 267,151 301,031 Valuation allowance (69,900 ) (84,137 ) Deferred tax assets 197,251 216,894 Deferred tax liabilities: Depreciation (379,161 ) (364,657 ) Intangibles (99,969 ) (108,047 ) Hedge of Net Investment of Foreign Subsidiary (51,192 ) (36,537 ) Other (18,536 ) (16,692 ) Deferred tax liabilities (548,858 ) (525,933 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (351,607 ) $ (309,039 ) Classification in the consolidated balance sheets: Noncurrent deferred tax assets $ 61,132 $ 75,813 Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities (412,739 ) (384,852 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (351,607 ) $ (309,039 )
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, 2016 2015 2014 Balance at January 1 $ (84,137 ) $ (30,768 ) $ (33,757 ) Additions (a) (20,568 ) (59,889 ) (1,895 ) Deductions 34,805 6,520 4,884 Balance at December 31 $ (69,900 ) $ (84,137 ) $ (30,768 ) (a) Additions for the year ended December 31, 2015 includes $42.0 million related to the acquisition of Rockwood.
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 2016 , 2015 and 2014 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 Balance at January 1 $ 95,715 $ 24,969 $ 29,143 Acquisition of Rockwood — 124,758 — Divestitures (a) (55,881 ) — — Additions for tax positions related to prior years 548 4,329 — Reductions for tax positions related to prior years (1,253 ) (46,211 ) (214 ) Additions for tax positions related to current year 1,271 202 2,232 Lapses in statutes of limitations/settlements (12,591 ) (6,736 ) (5,057 ) Foreign currency translation adjustment (2,425 ) (5,596 ) (1,135 ) Balance at December 31 $ 25,384 $ 95,715 $ 24,969 (a) Reclassified to Other noncurrent liabilities as a result of the indemnification of certain income tax liabilities associated with the Chemetall Surface Treatment entities sold. See Note 16, “Other Noncurrent Liabilities.”

Restructuring and Other (Tables

Restructuring and Other (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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 and 2014 consists of the following (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2015 2014 Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business (a) $ (6,804 ) $ — Charges in connection with aluminum alkyl supply capacity reduction (b) — 23,521 Other, net (c) — 2,426 Total Restructuring and other, net $ (6,804 ) $ 25,947 (a) In the third quarter of 2015, a gain of $6.8 million ( $5.4 million after i ncome 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) The amount for 2014 mainly consists of charges 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, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of 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, 2016 2015 Recorded Amount Fair Value Recorded Amount Fair Value (In thousands) Long-term debt $ 2,381,370 $ 2,472,813 $ 3,834,217 $ 3,793,179

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
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, 2016 and 2015 (in thousands): December 31, 2016 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) $ 22,037 $ 22,037 $ — $ — Private equity securities (b) $ 35 $ 35 $ — $ — Private equity securities measured at net asset value (b)(c) $ 5,498 $ — $ — $ — Pension assets (d) $ 520,845 $ 460,247 $ 60,598 $ — Pension assets measured at net asset value (d) $ 86,112 $ — $ — $ — Postretirement assets (d) $ 2,232 $ — $ 2,232 $ — Liabilities: Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 22,037 $ 22,037 $ — $ — Foreign currency forward contracts (e) $ 182 $ — $ 182 $ — 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) $ 31 $ 31 $ — $ — Private equity securities measured at net asset value (b)(c) $ 2,595 $ — $ — $ — Pension assets (d) $ 539,249 $ 481,837 $ 57,412 $ — Pension assets measured at net asset value (d) $ 80,746 $ — $ — $ — Postretirement assets (d) $ 3,292 $ — $ 3,292 $ — Liabilities: Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 21,631 $ 21,631 $ — $ — Foreign currency forward contracts (e) $ 250 $ — $ 250 $ — (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. (c) Holdings in private equity securities are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient and have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy as a result of the adoption of new accounting guidance effective January 1, 2016 on a retrospective basis. The fair value amounts of $5.5 million and $2.6 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, are included in this table to permit reconciliation to the marketable equity securities presented in Note 10, “Investments.” See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” for additional information. (d) See Note 15 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets. (e) 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.

Related Party Transactions (Tab

Related Party Transactions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Schedule of 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, 2016 2015 2014 Sales to unconsolidated affiliates $ 29,651 $ 24,180 $ 45,415 Purchases from unconsolidated affiliates 130,287 115,697 64,631

Segment and Geographic Area I58

Segment and Geographic Area Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments	Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Net sales: Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 968,216 $ 834,590 $ 312,788 Bromine Specialties 792,425 775,729 808,857 Refining Solutions 732,137 729,261 852,139 All Other 180,988 471,434 471,764 Corporate 3,437 15,415 — Total net sales $ 2,677,203 $ 2,826,429 $ 2,445,548 Adjusted EBITDA: Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 363,360 $ 312,867 $ 81,596 Bromine Specialties 226,926 222,653 224,976 Refining Solutions 238,963 197,595 256,485 All Other 14,772 53,993 73,973 Corporate (85,804 ) (31,108 ) (74,875 ) Total adjusted EBITDA $ 758,217 $ 756,000 $ 562,155 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 U.S. GAAP (in thousands): Lithium and Advanced Materials Bromine Specialties Refining Solutions Reportable Segments Total All Other Corporate Consolidated Total 2016 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 261,394 $ 187,364 $ 202,874 $ 651,632 $ 131,301 $ (139,258 ) $ 643,675 Depreciation and amortization 101,966 39,562 36,089 177,617 7,302 6,056 190,975 (Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net (a) — — — — (123,831 ) 1,533 (122,298 ) Acquisition and integration related costs (b) — — — — — 57,384 57,384 Interest and financing expenses — — — — — 65,181 65,181 Income tax expense — — — — — 96,263 96,263 Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) — — — — — (202,131 ) (202,131 ) Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — 25,589 25,589 Other (c) — — — — — 3,579 3,579 Adjusted EBITDA $ 363,360 $ 226,926 $ 238,963 $ 829,249 $ 14,772 $ (85,804 ) $ 758,217 2015 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 148,821 $ 186,474 $ 161,585 $ 496,880 $ 32,781 $ (194,755 ) $ 334,906 Depreciation and amortization 84,069 36,179 34,039 154,287 18,183 8,703 181,173 Utilization of inventory markup (d) 79,977 — — 79,977 3,029 — 83,006 Restructuring and other, net (e) — — — — — (6,804 ) (6,804 ) Acquisition and integration related costs (b) — — — — — 132,299 132,299 Interest and financing expenses — — — — — 81,650 81,650 Income tax expense — — — — — 11,134 11,134 Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) — — — — — (32,476 ) (32,476 ) Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — (35,300 ) (35,300 ) Other (f) — — 1,971 1,971 — 4,441 6,412 Adjusted EBITDA $ 312,867 $ 222,653 $ 197,595 $ 733,115 $ 53,993 $ (31,108 ) $ 756,000 2014 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 65,806 $ 189,059 $ 223,815 $ 478,680 $ 60,495 $ (405,859 ) $ 133,316 Depreciation and amortization 15,790 35,917 32,670 84,377 13,478 2,552 100,407 Restructuring and other, net (e) — — — — — 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 from discontinued operations (net of tax) — — — — — 69,531 69,531 Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — 125,462 125,462 Other (f) — — — — — 17,492 17,492 Adjusted EBITDA $ 81,596 $ 224,976 $ 256,485 $ 563,057 $ 73,973 $ (74,875 ) $ 562,155 (a) See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (b) See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (c) Includes amounts recorded in (1) Research and development expenses related to the write-off of fixed assets of $1.4 million ; (2) Selling, general and administrative expenses related to the net loss on the sales of properties of $0.9 million and (3) Other income (expenses), net related to environmental charges related to a site formerly owned by Albemarle of $2.4 million , partially offset by a gain related to a previously disposed of site in China of $1.1 million . (d) 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 $103.4 million . The inventory markup was expensed over the estimated remaining selling period. For the year ended December 31, 2015, $55.9 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. (e) See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other,” for additional information. (f) 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. As of December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Identifiable assets: Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 3,809,883 $ 3,658,669 $ 351,175 Bromine Specialties 724,218 699,929 734,071 Refining Solutions 913,923 937,445 1,100,361 Discontinued Operations — 3,208,902 — All Other 130,595 517,695 268,555 Corporate (a) 2,582,588 575,314 2,748,275 Total identifiable assets $ 8,161,207 $ 9,597,954 $ 5,202,437 Goodwill: Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 1,348,261 $ 1,267,505 $ 21,697 Bromine Specialties 20,319 20,319 20,319 Refining Solutions 164,866 172,728 192,657 All Other 6,586 — 8,589 Total goodwill $ 1,540,032 $ 1,460,552 $ 243,262 (a) As of December 31, 2016, Corporate included the net proceeds received from the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business completed on December 14, 2016, less the repayment of the term loans and commercial paper using those proceeds. 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 2, “Acquisitions,” Note 3, “Divestitures,” and Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” for additional details about these transactions. Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Depreciation and amortization: Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 101,966 $ 84,069 $ 15,790 Bromine Specialties 39,562 36,179 35,917 Refining Solutions 36,089 34,039 32,670 Discontinued Operations 35,194 78,903 3,165 All Other 7,302 18,183 13,478 Corporate 6,056 8,703 2,552 Total depreciation and amortization $ 226,169 $ 260,076 $ 103,572 Capital expenditures: Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 91,967 $ 104,344 $ 12,888 Bromine Specialties 46,414 54,994 39,392 Refining Solutions 27,546 28,836 49,219 Discontinued Operations 19,281 23,738 — All Other 9,251 13,054 9,053 Corporate 2,195 2,683 24 Total capital expenditures $ 196,654 $ 227,649 $ 110,576
Net Sales by Geographic Area	Year Ended December 31, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Net Sales: United States $ 797,267 $ 911,519 $ 884,373 Foreign (a) 1,879,936 1,914,910 1,561,175 Total $ 2,677,203 $ 2,826,429 $ 2,445,548 (a) In 2016, net sales to China represented 13% of total net sales. No net sales in any other 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, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Long-Lived Assets: United States $ 850,689 $ 800,214 $ 698,863 Chile 922,878 916,965 — Netherlands 145,917 155,128 167,965 Jordan 227,222 230,460 227,805 Australia 288,553 280,222 — Brazil 46,380 39,299 59,474 Germany 117,027 137,890 75,813 China 31,564 4,773 5,310 France 39,470 39,344 37,347 Korea 65,963 72,685 80,362 United Kingdom 3,665 3,665 3,665 Other foreign countries 54,271 55,234 48,819 Total $ 2,793,599 $ 2,735,879 $ 1,405,423
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, 2016 2015 2014 (In thousands) Lithium and Advanced Materials: Lithium $ 668,852 $ 508,844 $ — Performance Catalyst Solutions 299,364 325,746 312,788 Total Lithium and Advanced Materials $ 968,216 $ 834,590 $ 312,788 Bromine Specialties $ 792,425 $ 775,729 $ 808,857 Refining Solutions $ 732,137 $ 729,261 $ 852,139

Quarterly Financial Summary (59

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Summary	First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2016 Net sales $ 657,211 $ 669,327 $ 654,010 $ 696,655 Gross profit $ 242,534 $ 248,104 $ 238,972 $ 240,966 Gain on sales of businesses, net (a) $ (121,324 ) $ (974 ) $ — $ — Acquisition and integration related costs (b) $ 18,558 $ 19,030 $ 6,749 $ 13,047 Net income from continuing operations $ 218,236 $ 95,586 $ 114,512 $ 50,304 Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) (c) 17,312 (398,340 ) 23,185 559,974 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (7,362 ) (12,067 ) (9,477 ) (8,188 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 228,186 $ (314,821 ) $ 128,220 $ 602,090 Basic earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 1.88 $ 0.74 $ 0.93 $ 0.37 Discontinued operations 0.15 (3.54 ) 0.21 4.98 $ 2.03 $ (2.80 ) $ 1.14 $ 5.35 Shares used to compute basic earnings per share 112,260 112,339 112,429 112,487 Diluted earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 1.87 $ 0.74 $ 0.93 $ 0.37 Discontinued operations 0.15 (3.52 ) 0.20 4.93 $ 2.02 $ (2.78 ) $ 1.13 $ 5.30 Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share 112,770 113,175 113,448 113,563 First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2015 Net sales $ 692,313 $ 718,290 $ 693,216 $ 722,610 Gross profit $ 191,384 $ 212,031 $ 219,045 $ 237,773 Restructuring and other, net (d) $ — $ — $ (6,804 ) $ — Acquisition and integration related costs (b) $ 57,825 $ 22,832 $ 36,514 $ 15,128 Net income from continuing operations (e) $ 49,253 $ 49,218 $ 59,842 $ 169,275 (Loss) income from discontinued operations (net of tax) (2,104 ) 10,148 11,030 13,402 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (4,034 ) (7,219 ) (5,480 ) (8,425 ) Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 43,115 $ 52,147 $ 65,392 $ 174,252 Basic earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations (e) $ 0.42 $ 0.37 $ 0.48 $ 1.43 Discontinued operations (0.02 ) 0.09 0.10 0.12 $ 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 (loss) per share: Continuing operations (e) $ 0.42 $ 0.37 $ 0.48 $ 1.43 Discontinued operations (0.02 ) 0.09 0.10 0.12 $ 0.40 $ 0.46 $ 0.58 $ 1.55 Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share 108,464 112,607 112,544 112,608 (a) Included in Gain on sales of businesses, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 is $11.5 million and $112.3 million related to the sales of the metal sulfides business and the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business, respectively, both of which closed in the first quarter of 2016. In addition, Gain on sales of businesses, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 includes a loss of $1.5 million on the sale of our wafer reclaim business. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (b) See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (c) Included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the second quarter of 2016 is a nonrecurring, non-cash tax charge of $416.7 million related to the change in the Company’s assertion over book and tax basis differences for certain entities included in the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business. In the fourth quarter of 2016, this non-cash tax charge was reversed as a result of the completion of the sale. In addition, the fourth quarter of 2016 includes an after-tax gain of $135.0 million as a result of the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business. (d) See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.” (e) The fourth quarter of 2015 includes an income tax benefit of $43.1 million primarily related to the release of certain tax reserves associated with lapses in statutes of limitations and audit closures.

Summary of Significant Accoun60

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) $ in Thousands		Jan. 01, 2016segment	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)segment	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)		Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments | segment			3
Joint ventures			$ 429,794	$ 411,119	[1]
Long-term advances to joint ventures	[2]		31,776	31,780
Foreign exchange transaction gains (losses)			$ 2,400	51,800		$ (3,700)
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
Performance Chemicals
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments | segment		2
Saudi Organometallic Chemicals Company
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Joint ventures			$ 7,500
Other Assets | Saudi Organometallic Chemicals Company
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Long-term advances to joint ventures			$ 30,000	$ 30,000
[1]	Balance at December 31, 2015 excludes our investment in Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG (“Magnifin”) and two investments included in the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, which are included in Assets held for sale. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[2]	See Note 10, “Investments.”

Acquisitions (Details)

Acquisitions (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands		Jan. 12, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2016
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill			$ 1,460,552	[1],[2]	$ 243,262	[2]	$ 1,540,032
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		290,496
Other current assets		86,267
Property, plant and equipment		1,383,480
Investments		529,453
Other assets		25,538
Current liabilities		(406,532)
Long-term debt		(1,319,132)
Pension benefits		(316,086)
Other noncurrent liabilities		(195,052)
Deferred income taxes		(845,884)
Noncontrolling interests		(17,582)
Total identifiable net assets		2,906,694
Goodwill		2,818,627
Total net assets acquired	[3]	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 (in dollars per share)			$ 4.75		$ 3.13
Pro forma Net income from continuing operations per share: Diluted (in dollars per share)			$ 4.73		$ 3.12
Trade names and trademarks | 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		26,670
Patents and technology | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Definite-lived intangible assets		227,840
Trade names and trademarks | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Definite-lived intangible assets		234,610
Customer lists and relationships | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Definite-lived intangible assets		$ 1,280,142
[1]	As of December 31, 2015, $1.5 billion of Goodwill was classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[2]	The December 31, 2015 and 2014 balances have been recast to reflect a change in segments. See Note 25, “Segment and Geographic Area Information,” for further details.
[3]	Total net assets acquired includes amounts for the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, which is reported as discontinued operations. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Acquisitions - Additional Infor

Acquisitions - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

Dec. 31, 2016

Jan. 12, 2015

Dec. 31, 2016

Sep. 30, 2016

[3]

Jun. 30, 2016

[3]

Mar. 31, 2016

[3]

Dec. 31, 2015

Sep. 30, 2015

[3]

Jun. 30, 2015

[3]

Mar. 31, 2015

[3]

Dec. 31, 2016

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2016

Feb. 19, 2015

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Goodwill

$ 1,540,032

$ 1,540,032

$ 1,460,552

[1],[2]

$ 1,540,032

$ 1,460,552

[1],[2]

$ 243,262

[2]

$ 1,540,032

Acquisition and integration related costs

13,047

[3]

$ 6,749

$ 19,030

$ 18,558

$ 15,128

[3]

$ 36,514

$ 22,832

$ 57,825

57,384

132,299

30,158

Other acquisitions

126,747

48,845

0

Purchase of noncontrolling interest

0

4,784

0

Rockwood Holdings, Inc.

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Total purchase price

$ 5,725,321

Goodwill

$ 2,818,627

Change in purchase price allocation, goodwill

1,500

193,800

Acquisition and integration related costs

52,100

123,900

23,600

Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life

23 years

Utilization of inventory markup

103,400

Property, plant and equipment

$ 1,383,480

Other significant projects

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Acquisition and integration related costs

5,300

8,400

6,600

Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd.

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Other acquisitions

145,000

Property, plant and equipment

29,000

29,000

29,000

29,000

Deferred tax assets

1,600

1,600

1,600

1,600

Fair value of net working capital

$ 47,100

$ 47,100

47,100

$ 47,100

Goodwill

[4]

$ 113,555

Shanghai Chemetall

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Acquisition of remaining interest in Shanghai Chemetall

57,600

Chemal GmbH

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Other acquisitions

2,200

Nanjing Chemetall Surface Treatment Technologies

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Purchase of noncontrolling interest

4,800

Common Stock | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Appraisal shares

882,000

Acquisition and integration related costs | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Acquisition and integration related costs

$ 137,700

$ 23,600

Patents and technology | Rockwood Holdings, Inc.

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life

20 years

Trade names and trademarks | 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

[1]

As of December 31, 2015, $1.5 billion of Goodwill was classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

[2]

The December 31, 2015 and 2014 balances have been recast to reflect a change in segments. See Note 25, “Segment and Geographic Area Information,” for further details.

[3]

See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information.

[4]

Represents preliminary purchase price adjustments for the Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. acquisition recorded for the year ended December 31, 2016. See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information.

Divestitures - Discontinued Ope

Divestitures - Discontinued Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	[1]	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)		$ 559,974	$ 23,185	$ (398,340)		$ 17,312	$ 13,402	$ 11,030	$ 10,148	$ (2,104)	$ 202,131		$ 32,476	$ (69,531)
Goodwill							1,500,000						1,500,000
Other intangibles, net of amortization							1,400,000						1,400,000
Chemetall Surface Treatment
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Net sales											813,285		824,906
Cost of goods sold											416,934		488,267
Operating expenses, net(a)	[2]										268,402		239,316
Interest and financing expenses	[3]										38,227		51,072
Gain on sale of discontinued operations											(2,485)		(4,214)
Gain on sale of discontinued operations											(387,980)		0
Income (loss) before income taxes											480,187		50,465
Income tax expense (benefit)											278,056	[4]	17,989
Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)											202,131		32,476
Current assets							237,447						237,447
Net property, plant and equipment							163,643						163,643
Goodwill							1,433,259						1,433,259
Other intangibles, net of amortization							1,349,179						1,349,179
All other noncurrent assets							25,374						25,374
Assets held for sale							3,208,902						3,208,902
Current liabilities							200,892						200,892
Deferred income taxes							351,465						351,465
All other noncurrent liabilities							112,742						112,742
Liabilities held for sale							$ 665,099						665,099
Depreciation and amortization											35,194		78,903
Capital expenditures											$ 19,281		$ 23,738
Antioxidant, Ibuprofen and Propofol Assets
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Net sales														154,273
Income (loss) before income taxes														(90,439)
Income tax expense (benefit)														(20,908)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)														$ (69,531)
[1]	Included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the second quarter of 2016 is a nonrecurring, non-cash tax charge of $416.7 million related to the change in the Company’s assertion over book and tax basis differences for certain entities included in the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business. In the fourth quarter of 2016, this non-cash tax charge was reversed as a result of the completion of the sale. In addition, the fourth quarter of 2016 includes an after-tax gain of $135.0 million as a result of the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business.
[2]	Operating expenses, net for discontinued operations includes mark-to market actuarial (losses) gains of ($8.5) million and $8.9 million during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
[3]	Interest and financing expenses included the allocation of interest expense not directly attributable to other operations as well as interest expense related to debt to be assumed by the buyer. The allocation of interest expense to discontinued operations was based on the ratio of net assets held for sale to the sum of total net assets plus consolidated debt. There was no interest expense allocated to discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2014, as the Chemetall Surface Treatment business was not owned by the Company during this period.
[4]	Income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2016 included a charge of $253.0 million related to the gain on sale of discontinued operations.

Divestitures Divestitures - Oth

Divestitures Divestitures - Other Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Current assets	$ 0	$ 641,932
Goodwill		1,500,000
Other intangibles, net of amortization		1,400,000
Assets held for sale, excluding discontinued operations
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
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
Current liabilities		72,756
Deferred income taxes		24,947
All other noncurrent liabilities		31,003
Liabilities held for sale		$ 128,706

Divestitures - Additional Infor

Divestitures - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

Dec. 14, 2016

Feb. 01, 2016

Jan. 04, 2016

Sep. 01, 2014

Dec. 31, 2016

Sep. 30, 2016

[1]

Jun. 30, 2016

[1]

Mar. 31, 2016

[1]

Dec. 31, 2015

Mar. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2016

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]

Cash proceeds from divestitures, net

$ 3,325,571

$ 8,883

$ 104,718

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income

(84,371)

(2,144)

17,889

Actuarial (losses) gains

$ (26,700)

$ 30,100

Loss on disposal of businesses, before income taxes

510,278

0

(85,515)

Gain on sales of businesses, net

0

[1]

$ 0

$ (974)

$ (121,324)

(122,298)

0

0

Chemetall Surface Treatment

Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]

Cash proceeds from divestitures, net

$ 3,100,000

Gain on sale of business, before income taxes

(387,980)

0

Gain on sale of business, net of tax

$ 135,000

Actuarial (losses) gains

[2]

(8,500)

$ 8,900

Tax expense on gain on sale of business

253,000

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, before income taxes

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

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

Gain on sales of businesses, net

(11,500)

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

Gain on sales of businesses, net

$ (112,300)

Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG

Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]

Ownership percentage

50.00%

0.00%

[3]

50.00%

0.00%

[3]

50.00%

50.00%

Corporate | Wafer Reclaim

Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]

Gain on sales of businesses, net

$ 1,500

Foreign Currency Translation

Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income

$ (81,421)

[4]

$ (27)

$ 17,614

[4]

[1]

Included in Gain on sales of businesses, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 is $11.5 million and $112.3 million related to the sales of the metal sulfides business and the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business, respectively, both of which closed in the first quarter of 2016. In addition, Gain on sales of businesses, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 includes a loss of $1.5 million on the sale of our wafer reclaim business. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

[2]

Operating expenses, net for discontinued operations includes mark-to market actuarial (losses) gains of ($8.5) million and $8.9 million during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

[3]

On February 1, 2016, we sold our investment in Magnifin as part of the sale of the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

[4]

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2016 are included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2016 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 and the sale of our Chemetall Surface Treatment business which closed on December 14, 2016. See Note 3, “Divestitures.”

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform66

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Income taxes (net of refunds of $9,270, $7,333 and $6,035 in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively)(a)	$ 143,404	$ 162,408	[1]	$ 56,174
Interest (net of capitalization)	96,948	153,271		33,604
Capital expenditures included in Accounts payable	$ 33,622	$ 45,826		$ 20,373
[1]	Cash paid for income taxes during 2015 included approximately $111 million of taxes paid on repatriation of earnings from legacy Rockwood entities.

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform67

Supplemental Cash Flow Information Footnote (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items]
Foreign earnings repatriated	$ 308.4	$ 1,400	$ 12.6
Foreign currency exchange rate losses (gains)	$ 40.8	(70.7)	$ 1.1
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items]
Foreign earnings repatriated		$ 111

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform68

Supplemental Cash Flow Information - Parenthetical (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Income tax refunds	$ 9,270	$ 7,333	$ 6,035

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, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income from continuing operations	$ 50,304	$ 114,512	$ 95,586	$ 218,236	$ 169,275	[1]	$ 59,842	$ 49,218	$ 49,253	$ 478,638	$ 327,588	$ 230,437
Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests										(37,094)	(25,158)	(27,590)
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation										$ 441,544	$ 302,430	$ 202,847
Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share (in shares)	112,487	112,429	112,339	112,260	112,207		112,202	112,189	108,130	112,379	111,182	78,696
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 0.37	$ 0.93	$ 0.74	$ 1.88	$ 1.43	[1]	$ 0.48	$ 0.37	$ 0.42	$ 3.93	$ 2.72	$ 2.57
Incremental shares under stock compensation plans										860	374	406
Weighted-average common shares for diluted earnings per share (in shares)	113,563	113,448	113,175	112,770	112,608		112,544	112,607	108,464	113,239	111,556	79,102
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 0.37	$ 0.93	$ 0.74	$ 1.87	$ 1.43	[1]	$ 0.48	$ 0.37	$ 0.42	$ 3.9	$ 2.71	$ 2.57
[1]	The fourth quarter of 2015 includes an income tax benefit of $43.1 million primarily related to the release of certain tax reserves associated with lapses in statutes of limitations and audit closures.

Earnings Per Share - Additional

Earnings Per Share - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Nov. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	15,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	0
Payment for repurchase of common stock	$ 0	$ 0	$ 150,000
Shares available for repurchase	15,000,000
Common Stock
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Shares repurchased (in shares)	0	0
Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Shares repurchased (in shares)			2,190,254
Payment for repurchase of common stock			$ 150,000
Maximum
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Stock repurchase program, number of shares authorized to be repurchased (in shares)				15,000,000
Restricted Stock
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of shares containing nonforfeitable rights to dividends (in shares)	6,000

Other Accounts Receivable (Deta

Other Accounts Receivable (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Value added tax/consumption tax	$ 15,324	$ 23,758
Other	26,661	51,231
Total	$ 41,985	$ 74,989	[1]
[1]	As of December 31, 2015, $8.3 million of Other accounts receivable were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Other Accounts Receivable Other

Other Accounts Receivable Other Accounts Receivable- Additional Information (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Receivables [Abstract]
Other accounts receivable	$ 8.3

Inventories (Details)

Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Finished goods		$ 289,102	$ 264,025
Raw materials and work in process	[1]	109,706	122,038
Stores, supplies and other		51,455	53,450
Total inventories		$ 450,263	$ 439,513	[2]
[1]	Included $47.1 million and $39.1 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, of work in process related to the Lithium product category.
[2]	As of December 31, 2015, $162.8 million of Inventories were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Inventories - Additional Inform

Inventories - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Inventory [Line Items]
Inventories		$ 162.8
Percentage of LIFO inventory	19.00%	19.00%
Inventories stated on LIFO basis	$ 87.5	$ 85.1
Excess of replacement costs over stated LIFO value	33.8	36.9
Lithium
Inventory [Line Items]
Work in process related to Lithium	$ 47.1	$ 39.1

Other Current Assets (Details)

Other Current Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Assets [Abstract]
Income tax receivables	$ 15,085	$ 22,649
Prepaid expenses	42,240	38,609
Other	1,254	1,664
Total	$ 58,579	$ 62,922	[1]
[1]	As of December 31, 2015, $11.9 million of Other current assets were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Other Current Assets Other Curr

Other Current Assets Other Current Assets- Additional Information (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Other Assets [Abstract]
Other current assets	$ 11.9

Property, Plant and Equipment77

Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Land		$ 120,842	$ 120,702
Land improvements		59,387	57,833
Buildings and improvements		256,603	236,577
Machinery and equipment	[1]	2,501,481	2,216,085
Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs		654,006	652,871
Construction in progress		318,203	416,404
Total		$ 3,910,522	$ 3,700,472	[2]
[1]	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.
[2]	As of December 31, 2015, $424.1 million of Property, plant and equipment, at cost, was classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Property, Plant and Equipment78

Property, Plant and Equipment (Footnote) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, at cost		$ 424.1
Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	2 years
Minimum | Land improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	5 years
Minimum | Building and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	10 years
Minimum | Machinery and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	2 years
Minimum | Long term mineral rights and production equipment costs
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	7 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 | Land improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	30 years
Maximum | Building and improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	45 years
Maximum | Machinery and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	45 years
Maximum | Long term mineral rights and production equipment costs
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	60 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 Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation	$ 178.8	$ 162.2	$ 97.9
Interest capitalized on significant capital projects	6.8	11.2	2.4
Discontinued operations
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation	$ 8.9	$ 18.5	$ 2.3

Investments Investment Balances

Investments Investment Balances (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Investments [Abstract]
Joint ventures	$ 429,794	$ 411,119	[1]
Nonmarketable securities	169	208
Marketable equity securities	27,570	24,257
Total	$ 457,533	$ 435,584
[1]	Balance at December 31, 2015 excludes our investment in Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG (“Magnifin”) and two investments included in the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, which are included in Assets held for sale. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Investments Ownership Positions

Investments Ownership Positions in Significant Unconsolidated (Details)	Dec. 31, 2016		Feb. 01, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Windfield Holdings
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	49.00%			49.00%	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	0.00%	[1]	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%
[1]	On February 1, 2016, we sold our investment in Magnifin as part of the sale of the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Current assets	$ 383,203	$ 331,630
Noncurrent assets	913,643	935,790
Total assets	1,296,846	1,267,420
Current liabilities	138,474	106,966
Noncurrent liabilities	319,801	339,604
Total liabilities	458,275	446,570
Net sales	590,980	560,376	$ 499,394
Gross profit	267,241	253,569	164,063
Income before income taxes	189,016	157,501	101,983
Net income	$ 126,872	$ 111,491	$ 71,466

Investments Additional Informat

Investments Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)		$ 59,637	$ 27,978		$ 35,742
Dividends received from unconsolidated investments		43,759	59,912		40,688
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures exceeded the amount of underlying equity in net assets		(6,800)	11,500
Excess amount paid for joint ventures remaining to be amortized		600	800
Return of capital from unconsolidated investment		0	98,000		0
Marketable equity securities		27,570	24,257
Long-term advances to joint ventures	[1]	31,776	31,780
Joint ventures		429,794	411,119	[2]
Significant Unconsolidated Joint Venture
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Investment in significant unconsolidated joint ventures		404,600	402,600
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)		56,800	25,400		34,700
Undistributed earnings from equity method investees		99,400	105,900
Dividends received from unconsolidated investments		$ 42,100	$ 58,100		$ 39,600
Windfield Holdings
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage		49.00%	49.00%		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%
Joint ventures		$ 7,500
Benefit Protection Trust
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Marketable equity securities		22,000	21,600
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		$ 288,600
Other Variable Interest Entities Excluding Windfield Holdings
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Carrying value of unconsolidated investment		$ 8,800	7,800
Jordan Bromine Company Limited
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage		50.00%
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Utilization of inventory markup			103,400
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.”
[2]	Balance at December 31, 2015 excludes our investment in Magnifin Magnesiaprodukte GmbH & Co. KG (“Magnifin”) and two investments included in the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business, which are included in Assets held for sale. Refer to Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Other Assets (Details)

Other Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Deferred income taxes—noncurrent	[1]	$ 61,132	$ 75,813
Assets related to unrecognized tax benefits	[1]	15,076	50,875
Long-term advances to joint ventures	[2]	31,776	31,780
Other		34,336	35,930
Total		$ 142,320	$ 194,398	[3]
[1]	See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.”
[2]	See Note 10, “Investments.”
[3]	As of December 31, 2015, $8.6 million of Other Assets were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Other Assets Other Assets- Addi

Other Assets Other Assets- Additional Information (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other assets	$ 8.6

Goodwill and Other Intangible86

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Changes in Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	[2]	$ 1,460,552	[1]	$ 243,262
Reclass to assets held for sale		6,586	[3]	(46,794)	[4]
Reclass from assets held for sale		6,586	[3]	(46,794)	[4]
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(38,955)		(70,534)
Goodwill, Ending Balance		1,540,032		1,460,552	[1],[2]
All Other
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	[2]	0	[1]	8,589
Reclass to assets held for sale		6,586	[3]	(46,794)	[4]
Reclass from assets held for sale		6,586	[3]	(46,794)	[4]
Foreign currency translation adjustments		0		(2,946)
Goodwill, Ending Balance		6,586		0	[1],[2]
Reportable Segments | Lithium and Advanced Materials
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	[2]	1,267,505	[1]	21,697
Reclass to assets held for sale		0	[3]	0	[4]
Reclass from assets held for sale		0	[3]	0	[4]
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(31,093)		(47,659)
Goodwill, Ending Balance		1,348,261		1,267,505	[1],[2]
Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	[2]	20,319	[1]	20,319
Reclass to assets held for sale		0	[3]	0	[4]
Reclass from assets held for sale		0	[3]	0	[4]
Foreign currency translation adjustments		0		0
Goodwill, Ending Balance		20,319		20,319	[1],[2]
Reportable Segments | Refining Solutions
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	[2]	172,728	[1]	192,657
Reclass to assets held for sale		0	[3]	0	[4]
Reclass from assets held for sale		0	[3]	0	[4]
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(7,862)		(19,929)
Goodwill, Ending Balance		164,866		172,728	[1],[2]
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of Rockwood		(1,706)	[5]	1,334,618
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | All Other
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of Rockwood		0	[5]	41,151
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Reportable Segments | Lithium and Advanced Materials
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of Rockwood		(1,706)	[5]	1,293,467
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of Rockwood		0	[5]	0
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Reportable Segments | Refining Solutions
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of Rockwood		0	[5]	$ 0
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd.
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Other acquisitions	[6]	113,555
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. | All Other
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Other acquisitions	[6]	0
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. | Reportable Segments | Lithium and Advanced Materials
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Other acquisitions	[6]	113,555
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. | Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Other acquisitions	[6]	0
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. | Reportable Segments | Refining Solutions
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Other acquisitions	[6]	$ 0
[1]	As of December 31, 2015, $1.5 billion of Goodwill was classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[2]	The December 31, 2015 and 2014 balances have been recast to reflect a change in segments. See Note 25, “Segment and Geographic Area Information,” for further details.
[3]	Represents Goodwill of the fine chemistry services business, which was reported in Assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015, but reclassified back to Goodwill during the year end December 31, 2016. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[4]	Represents Goodwill of the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals, fine chemistry services and metal sulfides businesses. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[5]	Represents final purchase price adjustments for the Rockwood acquisition recorded for the year ended December 31, 2016. Excludes $3.2 million of final purchase price adjustments for businesses reported as discontinued operations.
[6]	Represents preliminary purchase price adjustments for the Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. acquisition recorded for the year ended December 31, 2016. See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information.

Goodwill and Other Intangible87

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Changes in Goodwill by Operating Segment (Footnote) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill		$ 1,500,000
Chemetall Surface Treatment
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill		$ 1,433,259
Acquisition of Rockwood	$ 3,200

Goodwill and Other Intangible88

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Other Intangibles (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance		$ 473,571		$ 129,873
Reclass to assets held for sale	[1]			(72,122)
Reclass from assets held for sale	[2]	1,454
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		(13,340)		(28,740)
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance		461,685		473,571		$ 129,873
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance		(89,703)		(85,748)
Amortization		(19,039)		(16,919)		(5,700)
Reclass to assets held for sale	[1]			5,798
Reclass from assets held for sale	[2]	(1,322)
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		2,943		7,166
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance		(107,121)		(89,703)		(85,748)
Net Book Value		354,564		383,868	[3]
Customer lists and relationships
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance		398,725		48,479
Reclass to assets held for sale	[1]			(16,608)
Reclass from assets held for sale	[2]	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		(10,832)		(19,476)
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance		387,893		398,725		48,479
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance		(32,656)		(22,931)
Amortization		(18,034)		(11,441)
Reclass to assets held for sale	[1]			596
Reclass from assets held for sale	[2]	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		1,525		1,120
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance		(49,165)		(32,656)		(22,931)
Net Book Value		338,728		366,069	[3]
Trade names and trademarks
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance		16,923	[4]	17,555
Reclass to assets held for sale	[1]			0
Reclass from assets held for sale	[2]	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		(409)		(632)
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance		16,514	[4]	16,923	[4]	17,555
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance		(8,086)		(7,912)
Amortization		0		(423)
Reclass to assets held for sale	[1]			0
Reclass from assets held for sale	[2]	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		134		249
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance		(7,952)		(8,086)		(7,912)
Net Book Value		8,562		8,837	[3]
Patents and technology
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance		40,144		40,398
Reclass to assets held for sale	[1]			(54,060)
Reclass from assets held for sale	[2]	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		(1,710)		(4,424)
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance		38,434		40,144		40,398
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance		(32,008)		(32,831)
Amortization		(574)		(4,654)
Reclass to assets held for sale	[1]			3,880
Reclass from assets held for sale	[2]	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		899		1,597
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance		(31,683)		(32,008)		(32,831)
Net Book Value		6,751		8,136	[3]
Other
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance		17,779		23,441
Reclass to assets held for sale	[1]			(1,454)
Reclass from assets held for sale	[2]	1,454
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		(389)		(4,208)
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance		18,844		17,779		23,441
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance		(16,953)		(22,074)
Amortization		(431)		(401)
Reclass to assets held for sale	[1]			1,322
Reclass from assets held for sale	[2]	(1,322)
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other		385		4,200
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance		(18,321)		(16,953)		$ (22,074)
Net Book Value		$ 523		826	[3]
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of Rockwood				444,560
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Customer lists and relationships
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of Rockwood				386,330
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Trade names and trademarks
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of Rockwood				0
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Patents and technology
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of Rockwood				58,230
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Other
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of Rockwood				$ 0
[1]	Represents Other intangibles and related amortization of the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals, fine chemistry services and metal sulfides businesses. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[2]	Represents Other intangibles and related amortization of the fine chemistry services business, which was reported in Assets held for sale on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2015, but reclassified back to Other intangibles during the year end December 31, 2016. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[3]	As of December 31, 2015, $1.4 billion of Other intangibles, net of amortization were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3 “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[4]	Balances as of December 31, 2015 and 2016 include only indefinite-lived intangible assets.

Goodwill and Other Intangible89

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Other Intangibles (Footnote) (Details) $ in Billions	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Other intangibles, net of amortization	$ 1.4

Goodwill and Other Intangible90

Goodwill and Other Intangibles - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets	$ 19,039	$ 16,919	$ 5,700
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	$ 18,034	11,441
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
Patents and technology
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets	$ 574	4,654
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	$ 431	401
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
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets	$ 15,900	8,700
Discontinued operations
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets	$ 26,300	$ 60,400	$ 900

Goodwill and Other Intangible91

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Total Estimated Amortization Expense of Other Intangibles for Next Five Fiscal Years (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
2,017	$ 20,714
2,018	22,019
2,019	22,327
2,020	21,671
2,021	$ 21,392

Accrued Expenses (Details)

Accrued Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Employee benefits, payroll and related taxes		$ 92,478	$ 91,970
Obligations in connection with acquisitions	[1]	47,082	128,881
Other	[2]	182,605	92,408
Total		$ 322,165	$ 313,259	[3]
[1]	As of December 31, 2016 included accruals related to net working capital amounts arising from the acquisition of the lithium business of Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. The balance as of December 31, 2015 included 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.
[3]	As of December 31, 2015, $112.1 million of Accrued expenses were classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Accrued Expenses Accrued Expens

Accrued Expenses Accrued Expenses Footnote (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Accrued expenses		$ 112.1
Total Current Liabilities
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Benchmark for individual components of accrued expenses, percentage	5.00%

Long-Term Debt Schedule of Debt

Long-Term Debt Schedule of Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	$ 2,369,262	$ 3,817,157	[1]
Current portion of long-term debt	247,544	674,994
Long-term debt	2,121,718	3,142,163
Term loan facilities | September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	0	1,247,167
Senior Notes | 1.875% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	719,617	759,151
Senior Notes | 3.00% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	248,714	248,274
Senior Notes | 4.15% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	421,141	420,654
Senior Notes | 4.50% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	347,620	347,018
Senior Notes | 5.45% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	345,687	345,532
Commercial Paper
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	247,503	351,349
Variable-rate foreign bank loans
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	38,939	77,452
Variable-rate domestic bank loans
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	0	20,479
Other long-term debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	$ 41	$ 81
[1]	As of December 31, 2015, $20.3 million of long-term debt was classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Long-Term Debt Interest Rates (

Long-Term Debt Interest Rates (Details) € in Millions

Feb. 01, 2015USD ($)

Feb. 28, 2015USD ($)

Jan. 31, 2015USD ($)

Feb. 28, 2017USD ($)

Feb. 28, 2017EUR (€)

Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)

Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)

Dec. 18, 2014

Dec. 08, 2014

Nov. 24, 2014

Dec. 10, 2010

Jan. 20, 2005

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Repayments of long-term debt

$ 1,252,302,000

$ 2,626,241,000

$ 6,017,000

364 Day Facility

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Repayments of long-term debt

300,000,000

Five Year Facility

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Repayments of long-term debt

950,000,000

1.875% Senior Notes

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs

$ 7,823,000

$ 9,904,000

Debt instrument, interest rate

1.875%

1.875%

1.875%

1.875%

3.00% Senior Notes

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs

$ 1,286,000

$ 1,726,000

Debt instrument, interest rate

3.00%

3.00%

3.00%

4.15% Senior Notes

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs

$ 3,859,000

$ 4,346,000

Debt instrument, interest rate

4.15%

4.15%

4.15%

4.50% Senior Notes

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs

$ 2,380,000

$ 2,982,000

Debt instrument, interest rate

4.50%

4.50%

4.50%

5.10% Senior Notes

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Debt instrument, interest rate

5.10%

Repayments of long-term debt

$ 325,000,000

5.45% Senior Notes

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs

$ 4,313,000

$ 4,468,000

Debt instrument, interest rate

5.45%

5.45%

5.45%

Revolving Credit Facility

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Repayments of long-term debt

$ 250,000,000

Short-term Debt | Term Loan

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Repayments of long-term debt

$ 183,500,000

$ 816,500,000

Senior Unsecured Cash Bridge Facility | Bridge Loan

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Repayments of long-term debt

$ 800,000,000

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

Subsequent Event | Senior Notes | 1.875% Senior Notes

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Repayments of long-term debt | €

€ 307

Subsequent Event | Senior Notes | 3.00% Senior Notes

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Repayments of long-term debt

$ 250,000,000

Subsequent Event | Senior Notes | 4.50% Senior Notes

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

Repayments of long-term debt

$ 174,700,000

Long-Term Debt - Additional Inf

Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Details)	Oct. 15, 2015USD ($)	Feb. 01, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 18, 2014USD ($)	Nov. 24, 2014USD ($)tranche	Oct. 15, 2014USD ($)	Feb. 07, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Feb. 28, 2015USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2015USD ($)	Feb. 28, 2017USD ($)	Feb. 28, 2017EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Jan. 12, 2015USD ($)	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]
Long-term debt													$ 20,300,000
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2017							$ 247,500,000					$ 247,500,000
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2018							0					0
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2019							250,000,000					250,000,000
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2020							388,900,000					388,900,000
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2021							727,400,000					727,400,000
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, thereafter							775,000,000					775,000,000
Repayments of long-term debt												1,252,302,000	2,626,241,000	$ 6,017,000
Payment for settlement of interest rate swap												0	0	33,425,000
Interest rate cash flow hedge gain (loss) to be reclassified during next 12 months							3,300,000					3,300,000
Proceeds from borrowings of other long-term debt												0	2,250,000,000	0
Debt financing costs paid												0	$ 4,544,000	$ 17,644,000
Revolving credit facility, remaining borrowings available							$ 752,500,000					$ 752,500,000
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%				1.875%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage																	2.10%
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, before tax												$ 26,100,000	$ 50,900,000
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%
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
Payments of debt premium	$ 43,300,000
Debt instrument, redemption price, percentage	103.469%
Loss on early extinguishment of debt													$ 5,400,000
Commercial Paper
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt							$ 153,000,000
Commercial paper notes							$ 247,500,000					$ 247,500,000
Weighted-average interest rate							1.46%					1.46%
Debt instrument weighted average maturity period												37 days
Line of Credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity							$ 262,544,000					$ 262,544,000
Borrowings outstanding under credit facility							$ 38,900,000					$ 38,900,000	$ 97,900,000
Average interest rate on borrowings							0.94%					0.94%	0.74%	0.83%
Maximum | Commercial Paper
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commercial paper notes																						$ 750,000,000
Debt instrument, maturity term												397 days
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
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%
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%
Additional borrowing capacity amount																				$ 1,000,000,000
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
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							$ 251,600,000					$ 251,600,000	217,700,000
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications, before tax			$ 5,200,000
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
Long-Term Debt Excluding Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized debt issuance costs													$ 17,100,000
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin												1.375%
Subsequent Event
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Payments of debt premium										$ 45,200,000
Subsequent Event | Senior Notes | 1.875% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt | €											€ 307,000,000
Subsequent Event | Senior Notes | 3.00% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt										250,000,000
Subsequent Event | Senior Notes | 4.50% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt										$ 174,700,000

Pension Plans and Other Postr97

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jan. 01, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2005
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation for defined benefit pension plans			$ 901,400	$ 916,700
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			$ 20,068	$ 21,613	$ 13,916
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			6.89%	6.88%	6.91%
Projected benefit obligation recognized			$ 665,688	$ 682,839	$ 729,652
Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets			6.66%	5.76%	4.00%
Projected benefit obligation recognized			$ 246,280	$ 245,747	$ 53,112
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets			7.00%	7.00%	7.00%
Projected benefit obligation recognized			$ 56,141	$ 56,499	$ 64,500
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Costs (credits) related to supplemental executive retirement plan			1,600	(2,100)	7,300
Projected benefit obligation recognized			23,500	23,100
2004 Defined Contribution Plan | U.S. Postretirement Benefit Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan, employer contributions			15,100	12,800	8,400
Employee Savings Plan | U.S. Postretirement Benefit Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan, employer contributions			12,700	11,700	10,000
Employee Savings Plan | Foreign Postretirement Benefit Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan, employer contributions			$ 9,500	$ 7,200	$ 10,100
Subsequent Event | U.S. Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets	6.89%
Subsequent Event | Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets	6.16%
Subsequent Event | Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets	7.00%
Scenario, Forecast | Total Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected contributions to benefit plans in 2017		$ 10,000
Scenario, Forecast | Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected premium contribution		3,000
Scenario, Forecast | Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected contributions to benefit plans in 2017		$ 1,100

Pension Plans and Other Postr98

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, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
U.S. Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation, beginning balance	$ 682,839		$ 729,652
Service cost	1,028		1,233		$ 7,029
Interest cost	30,514		30,235		30,491
Plan amendments	0		0
Actuarial loss (gain)	7,357		(54,140)
Benefits paid	(56,050)		(37,512)
Acquisitions	0		13,371
Divestitures	0		0
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	665,688		682,839		729,652
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance	555,084		598,250
Actual return on plan assets	37,725		(16,306)
Employer contributions	1,323		1,398
Benefits paid	(56,050)		(37,512)
Acquisitions	0		9,254
Employee contributions	0		0
Foreign exchange loss	0		0
Settlements/curtailments	0		0
Other	0		0
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance	538,082		555,084		598,250
Funded status	(127,606)		(127,755)
Current liabilities (accrued expenses)	(1,100)		(1,110)
Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits)	(126,506)		(126,645)
Net pension liability	(127,606)		(127,755)
Prior service benefit	(136)		(211)
Net amount recognized	$ (136)		$ (211)
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31:
Discount Rate	4.43%		4.67%
Rate of compensation increase	0.00%		0.00%
Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation, beginning balance	$ 245,747		$ 53,112
Service cost	3,133		3,909		1,746
Interest cost	6,570		6,405		1,571
Plan amendments	0		864
Actuarial loss (gain)	28,083		(30,978)
Benefits paid	(9,793)		(11,283)
Acquisitions	0		270,618
Divestitures	(6,372)		0
Reclass to liabilities held for sale	0		(26,608)
Employee contributions	245		256
Foreign exchange gain	(21,724)		(20,105)
Settlements/curtailments	(427)		(161)
Other	818		(282)
Benefit obligation, ending balance	246,280		245,747		53,112
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance	64,911		9,444
Actual return on plan assets	12,534		630
Employer contributions	10,911		11,864
Benefits paid	(9,793)		(11,283)
Acquisitions	0		56,418
Employee contributions	245		256
Foreign exchange loss	(10,492)		(2,189)
Settlements/curtailments	0		(161)
Other	559		(68)
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance	68,875		64,911		9,444
Funded status	(177,405)		(180,836)
Current liabilities (accrued expenses)	(5,216)		(7,498)
Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits)	(172,189)		(173,338)
Net pension liability	(177,405)		(180,836)
Prior service benefit	(322)		(1,046)
Net amount recognized	$ (322)		$ (1,046)
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31:
Discount Rate	2.00%		2.76%
Rate of compensation increase	3.18%		3.16%
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation, beginning balance	$ 56,499		$ 64,500
Service cost	115		137		216
Interest cost	2,483		2,573		3,040
Actuarial loss (gain)	1,529		(5,690)
Benefits paid	(4,485)		(5,021)
Benefit obligation, ending balance	56,141		56,499		64,500
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance	3,292	[1]	4,439
Actual return on plan assets	442		280
Employer contributions	2,983		3,594
Benefits paid	(4,485)		(5,021)
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance	2,232	[1]	3,292	[1]	$ 4,439
Funded status	(53,909)		(53,207)
Current liabilities (accrued expenses)	(3,371)		(3,560)
Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits)	(50,538)		(49,647)
Net pension liability	(53,909)		(53,207)
Prior service benefit	143		239
Net amount recognized	$ 143		$ 239
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31:
Discount Rate	4.35%		4.59%
Rate of compensation increase	3.50%		3.50%
[1]	See Note 15 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets

Pension Plans and Other Postr99

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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Actuarial loss (gain)	$ 26,700	$ (30,100)
U.S. Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost			$ 1,028		$ 1,233		$ 7,029
Interest cost			30,514		30,235		30,491
Expected return on assets			(36,445)		(40,495)		(39,714)
Actuarial loss (gain)			5,988		2,665		116,705
Amortization of prior service benefit			75		75		(727)
Total net pension benefits cost (credit)			$ 1,160	[1]	$ (6,287)	[1]	$ 113,784
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Discount rate			4.67%		4.19%		5.14%
Expected return on plan assets			6.89%		6.88%		6.91%
Rate of compensation increase			0.00%		0.00%		3.50%
Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost			$ 3,133		$ 3,909		$ 1,746
Interest cost			6,570		6,405		1,571
Expected return on assets			(4,027)		(3,670)		(427)
Actuarial loss (gain)			19,418		(27,043)		10,270
Amortization of prior service benefit			859		43		50
Total net pension benefits cost (credit)			$ 25,953	[1]	$ (20,356)	[1]	$ 13,210
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Discount rate			2.76%		2.22%		3.41%
Expected return on plan assets			6.66%		5.76%		4.00%
Rate of compensation increase			3.16%		3.15%		3.16%
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost			$ 115		$ 137		$ 216
Interest cost			2,483		2,573		3,040
Expected return on assets			(187)		(263)		(342)
Actuarial loss (gain)			1,275		(5,707)		3,868
Amortization of prior service benefit			(95)		(95)		(95)
Total net pension benefits cost (credit)			$ 3,591		(3,355)	[2]	$ 6,687
Net pension or postretirement benefits credit					$ 2,600
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Discount rate			4.59%		4.15%		5.03%
Expected return on plan assets			7.00%		7.00%		7.00%
Rate of compensation increase			3.50%		3.50%		3.50%
Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net pension or postretirement benefits credit			$ 10,800		$ 6,200
[1]	For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, $10.8 million and $6.2 million, respectively, of net pension benefits credit is included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[2]	For the year ended December 31, 2015, $2.6 million of net postretirement benefits credit is included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Pension Plans and Other Post100

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Estimated Amounts to Be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into Net Periodic Benefit Costs (Details) - Scenario, Forecast $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)
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	36
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Future amortization of prior service benefit	$ (95)

Pension Plans and Other Post101

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Financial Assets Accounted for at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Total Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		$ 606,957		$ 619,995
Total Pension Benefits | Domestic Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	[1]	146,683		163,408
Total Pension Benefits | International Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	[2]	116,649		115,949
Total Pension Benefits | Fixed Income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	[3]	255,401		254,560
Total Pension Benefits | Absolute Return Measured At Net Asset Value
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	[4]	86,112		80,746
Total Pension Benefits | Cash
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		2,112		5,332
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		2,232	[5]	3,292	[5]	$ 4,439
Other Postretirement Benefits | Fixed Income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		2,232	[1]	3,292	[3]
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Total Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		460,247		481,837
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	[1]	143,987		161,075
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	[2]	83,839		84,019
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	[3]	230,309		231,411
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Total Pension Benefits | Absolute Return Measured At Net Asset Value
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0		0
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		2,112		5,332
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	[1]	0	[3]
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		60,598		57,412
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	[1]	2,696		2,333
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	[2]	32,810		31,930
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	[3]	25,092		23,149
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Total Pension Benefits | Absolute Return Measured At Net Asset Value
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0		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	[5]	2,232		3,292
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		2,232	[1]	3,292	[3]
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0		0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits | Domestic Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	[1]	0		0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits | International Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	[2]	0		0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits | Fixed Income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	[3]	0		0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits | Absolute Return Measured At Net Asset Value
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0		0
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	[1]	$ 0	[3]
[1]	Consists primarily of U.S. stock funds that track or are actively managed and measured against the S&P 500 index.
[2]	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.
[3]	Consists primarily of debt obligations issued by governments, corporations, municipalities and other borrowers. Also includes insurance policies.
[4]	Consists primarily of funds with holdings in private investment companies. See additional information about the Absolute Return investments below. Holdings in private investment companies are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share as a practical expedient and have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy as a result of the adoption of new accounting guidance effective January 1, 2016 on a retrospective basis. The fair value amounts of $86.1 million and $80.7 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, are included in this table to permit reconciliation to the reconciliation of plan assets table above. See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” for additional information.
[5]	See Note 15 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets

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, 2016
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	42.00%
Absolute Return
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocations percentage of assets	13.00%
Other
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocations percentage of assets	1.00%

Pension Plans and Other Post103

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Current Forecast of Benefit Payments which Reflect Expected Future Service (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
U.S. Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,017	$ 39.6
2,018	40.9
2,019	41.9
2,020	42.7
2,021	43.1
2022-2026	219.2
Foreign Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,017	9.2
2,018	8.7
2,019	8.2
2,020	9
2,021	9.6
2022-2026	51.2
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,017	4.7
2,018	4.5
2,019	4.3
2,020	4
2,021	3.8
2022-2026	$ 18.2

Pension Plans and Other Post104

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Multiemployer Plans (Details) € in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015EUR (€)
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Multiemployer plan minimum level of funding for highest funding zone status	80.00%	80.00%
Multiemployer plan, period contributions	$ 3	€ 2.7	$ 3.1	€ 2.7
Minimum
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Contributions to multiemployer plan, percentage of total contributions to plan	5.00%	5.00%

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (D

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions	[1]	$ 27,919		$ 101,677
Executive deferred compensation plan obligation		22,037		21,631
Environmental liabilities		32,595	[2]	29,993	[2]	$ 4,841
Asset retirement obligations	[2]	36,296		37,230
Tax indemnification liability	[3]	38,255		0
Other	[4]	37,708		48,573
Total		$ 194,810		$ 239,104	[5]
[1]	See Note 20, “Income Taxes.”
[2]	See Note 17, “Commitments and Contingencies.”
[3]	Indemnification of certain income and non-income tax liabilities associated with the Chemetall Surface Treatment entities sold.
[4]	No individual component exceeds 5% of total liabilities.
[5]	As of December 31, 2015, $20.2 million of Other noncurrent liabilities were classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Other Noncurrent Liabilities Ot

Other Noncurrent Liabilities Other Noncurrent Liabilities- Additional Information (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other noncurrent liabilities	$ 20.2

Commitments and Contingencies A

Commitments and Contingencies Activity in Recorded Environmental Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of year	$ 31,436	[1]	$ 9,235		$ 16,599
Expenditures	(2,667)		(4,039)		(4,548)
Divestitures	0		(1,826)		(1,954)
Accretion of discount	793		902		0
Additions and revisions of estimates	4,004		150		34
Reclass to liabilities held for sale(a)	0		(5,253)	[2]	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	1,353		(2,359)		(896)
Balance, end of year	31,436	[1]	9,235		16,599	$ 34,919		$ 31,436	[1]	$ 9,235
Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses						2,324		1,443		4,394
Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities						$ 32,595	[3]	$ 29,993	[3]	$ 4,841
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward]
Acquisition of Rockwood	$ 0		$ 34,626		$ 0
[1]	As of December 31, 2015, $3.9 million of environmental liabilities were classified as Liabilities held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[2]	Represents environmental liabilities of the metal sulfides and minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals businesses. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[3]	See Note 17, “Commitments and Contingencies.”

Commitments and Contingencie108

Commitments and Contingencies Activity in Recorded Asset Retirement Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016
Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of year	$ 37,230	$ 15,085
Liabilities incurred	0	3,636
Accretion of discount	1,354	1,289
Liabilities settled	(370)	0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	(1,918)	(45)
Balance, end of year	37,230	15,085	$ 36,296
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward]
Liabilities incurred	$ 0	$ 17,265

Commitments and Contingencies F

Commitments and Contingencies Future Non-Cancelable Minimum Lease Payments for Next Five Years and Thereafter (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Minimum Operating Lease Payments
2,017	$ 12,065
2,018	10,153
2,019	7,878
2,020	6,369
2,021	5,490
Thereafter	$ 19,240

Commitments and Contingencies L

Commitments and Contingencies Letters of Credit and Guarantee Agreements (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
2,017	$ 23,619
2,018	5,052
2,019	795
2,020	199
2,021	315
Thereafter	$ 21,357

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Environmental liabilities		$ 3.9
Environmental remediation liabilities- discounted	$ 22.8	22
Accrual for environmental loss contingencies- weighted-average discount rate	3.50%
Environmental remediation liabilities- undiscounted	$ 61.1	59.5
Potential revision on future environmental remediation costs before tax	16
Rental expense	31.4	34.8	$ 31.9
Discontinued operations
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Rental expense	$ 11.8	$ 10.2	$ 1.3

Stock-based Compensation Exp112

Stock-based Compensation Expense Fixed-Price Stock Options (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Shares
Outstanding Shares,Beginning Balance (in shares)	1,676,927
Granted (in shares)	141,661	313,803	222,939
Exercised (in shares)	(212,343)
Forfeited (in shares)	(64,001)
Outstanding Shares, Ending Balance (in shares)	1,542,244	1,676,927
Exercisable, Ending Balance (in shares)	858,291
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Outstanding Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance (in dollars per share)	$ 50.76
Granted (in dollars per share)	56.56
Exercised (in dollars per share)	44.28
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	59.03
Outstanding Weighted-Average Exercise (in dollars per share)Price, Ending Balance	51.85	$ 50.76
Exercisable Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Ending Balance (in dollars per share)	$ 45.63
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)
Weighted-Averaged Remaining Contractual Term, Beginning Balance	5 years 6 months	6 years 1 month 6 days
Weighted-Averaged Remaining Contractual Term, Ending Balance	5 years 6 months	6 years 1 month 6 days
Exercisable Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Ending Balance	3 years 8 months 24 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Beginning Balance	$ 14,152
Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Ending Balance	52,798	$ 14,152
Exercisable Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Ending Balance	$ 34,720

Stock-based Compensation Exp113

Stock-based Compensation Expense Weighted-Average Assumptions used to Estimate Fair Value of Each Option Granted (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Dividend yield	1.84%	1.80%	1.71%
Volatility	33.08%	32.92%	33.03%
Average expected life (years)	6 years	6 years	6 years
Risk-free interest rate	1.96%	2.17%	2.94%
Fair value of options granted	$ 16.06	$ 16.04	$ 19.56

Stock-based Compensation Exp114

Stock-based Compensation Expense Activity in Performance Unit Awards (Details) - Performance Unit Awards	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016$ / sharesshares
Shares
Nonvested, beginning of period (in shares) | shares	497,205
Granted (in shares) | shares	139,948
Vested (in shares) | shares	(80,970)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares	(61,492)
Nonvested, end of period (in shares) | shares	494,691
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested, beginning of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 62.04
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	78.03
Vested (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	61.75
Forfeited (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	63.61
Nonvested, end of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 66.42

Stock-based Compensation Exp115

Stock-based Compensation Expense Activity in Non-Performance Based Restricted Stock Awards (Details) - Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016$ / sharesshares
Shares
Nonvested, beginning of period (in shares) | shares	118,121
Granted (in shares) | shares	156,662
Vested (in shares) | shares	(53,875)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares	(40,252)
Nonvested, end of period (in shares) | shares	180,656
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested, beginning of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 58.62
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	56.43
Vested (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	57.34
Forfeited (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	54.65
Nonvested, end of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 57.99

Stock-based Compensation Exp116

Stock-based Compensation Expense - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 20, 2010	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	May 07, 2013
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Stock options granted during the period (in shares)		141,661	313,803	222,939
Common stock authorized for non-employee directors (in shares)		150,000,000	150,000,000
Stock-based compensation		$ 17,031,000	$ 15,188,000	$ 14,267,000
Tax benefits recognized related to stock based compensation		6,200,000	5,600,000	5,200,000
Proceeds from stock option exercised		$ 9,401,000	517,000	2,713,000
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)		2,268,750
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)		420,091
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		$ 7,900,000	500,000	2,400,000
Compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested share		$ 6,300,000
Remaining weighted average period for recognition of compensation cost years		1 year 9 months 24 days
Proceeds from stock option exercised		$ 9,400,000
Tax benefit from stock option exercised		2,900,000
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested share		$ 6,300,000
Remaining weighted average period for recognition of compensation cost years		2 years 2 months 24 days
Weighted average grant date fair value		$ 8,800,000	3,500,000	2,700,000
Weighted average fair value of awards vested in period		$ 3,200,000	2,200,000	2,100,000
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
Performance Unit Awards
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested share		$ 12,000,000
Remaining weighted average period for recognition of compensation cost years		1 year 3 months 24 days
Weighted average grant date fair value		$ 10,900,000	11,900,000	20,100,000
Weighted average fair value of awards vested in period		$ 4,600,000	$ 2,500,000	$ 7,400,000
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
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%
Chemetall Surface Treatment
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation		$ 5,800,000

Accumulated Other Comprehens117

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, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		$ 3,401,313		$ 1,488,635	$ 1,742,776
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(76,113)		(362,910)	(160,849)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income		84,371		2,144	(17,889)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax		8,258		(360,766)	(178,738)
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		618		1,891	80
Ending balance		3,942,604		3,401,313	1,488,635
Foreign Currency Translation
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		(463,914)		(52,835)	115,758
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		(102,246)		(412,997)	(151,059)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income		81,421	[1]	27	(17,614)	[1]
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax		(20,825)		(412,970)	(168,673)
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		618		1,891	80
Ending balance		(484,121)		(463,914)	(52,835)
Pension and Postretirement Benefits
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		(758)		0	487
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		0		(774)	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	[2]	834		16	(487)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax		834		(758)	(487)
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		0		0	0
Ending balance		76		(758)	0
Net Investment Hedge
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		62,245		11,384	0
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		26,133		50,861	11,384
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income		0		0	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax		26,133		50,861	11,384
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		0		0	0
Ending balance		88,378		62,245	11,384
Interest Rate Swap
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		(18,861)		(20,962)	0
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications		0		0	(21,174)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	[3]	2,116		2,101	212
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax		2,116		2,101	(20,962)
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		0		0	0
Ending balance		(16,745)		(18,861)	(20,962)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		(421,288)		(62,413)	116,245
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax		8,876		(358,875)	(178,658)
Ending balance		$ (412,412)		$ (421,288)	$ (62,413)
[1]	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2016 are included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2016 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 and the sale of our Chemetall Surface Treatment business which closed on December 14, 2016. 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 Comprehens118

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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Equity [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation, Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax	$ (20,849)	$ (451,762)	$ (163,319)
Foreign currency translation, Income tax benefit (expense)	24	38,792	(5,354)
Foreign currency translation, Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(20,825)	(412,970)	(168,673)
Pension and other postretirement benefits, Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax	839	(751)	(772)
Pension and other postretirement benefits, Income tax benefit (expense)	(5)	(7)	285
Pension and other postretirement benefits, Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	834	(758)	(487)
Net investment hedge, Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax	41,209	80,746	17,971	[1]
Net investment hedge, Income tax benefit (expense)	(15,076)	(29,885)	(6,587)
Net investment hedge, Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	26,133	50,861	11,384
Interest rate swap, Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax	3,336	3,336	(33,091)	[2]
Interest rate swap, Income tax benefit (expense)	(1,220)	(1,235)	12,129
Interest rate swap, Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	$ 2,116	$ 2,101	$ (20,962)
[1]	Other comprehensive (loss) 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) income, 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 Comprehens119

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, 2016	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		$ 26.1	$ 50.9
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 | Interest Rate Swap
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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments:
Domestic	$ 49,630	$ (15,861)	$ 45,689
Foreign	465,634	326,605	167,490
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	515,264	310,744	213,179
Current income tax expense (benefit):
Federal	7,717	76,778	36,708
State	1,407	(983)	3,209
Foreign	63,957	58,710	25,700
Total	73,081	134,505	65,617
Deferred income tax expense (benefit):
Federal	12,230	(127,212)	(32,890)
State	(1,715)	(1,267)	(1,139)
Foreign	12,667	5,108	(13,104)
Total	23,182	(123,371)	(47,133)
Total income tax expense	$ 96,263	$ 11,134	$ 18,484

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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal statutory rate		35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State taxes, net of federal tax benefit		(0.10%)	1.40%	0.20%
Change in valuation allowance		3.70%	5.70%	1.00%
Impact of foreign earnings, net	[1]	(19.30%)	(22.00%)	(24.80%)
Subpart F income		0.20%	7.80%	1.20%
Deemed repatriation of foreign income	[2]	0.00%	105.50%	0.00%
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries	[1],[2]	0.10%	(114.80%)	(0.30%)
Nondeductible transaction costs		0.00%	2.00%	0.00%
Depletion		(1.00%)	(1.80%)	(2.40%)
Revaluation of unrecognized tax benefits/reserve requirements	[3]	(0.40%)	(14.40%)	(0.60%)
Domestic manufacturing tax deduction		(0.90%)	(0.50%)	(2.20%)
Other items, net		1.40%	(0.30%)	1.60%
Effective income tax rate		18.70%	3.60%	8.70%
[1]	During 2016, 2015 and 2014, we received actual and deemed distributions of $308.4 million, $1.4 billion and $12.6 million, respectively, from various foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures, and realized an expense, net of foreign tax credits, of $67.5 million, $350.2 million and $2.8 million, respectively, related to the repatriation of these earnings, which impacted our effective tax rate. Our statutory rate is decreased by 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 7.3%, 8.2%, and 12.4% for 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively.
[2]	In prior years, we designated the undistributed earnings of substantially all of our foreign subsidiaries as indefinitely reinvested. In 2015, we were not indefinitely reinvested 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.
[3]	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 $42.7 million.

Income Taxes Significant Dif122

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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Jan. 12, 2015
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items
Foreign earnings repatriated			$ 308.4	$ 1,400	$ 12.6
Effective income tax rate reconciliation, repatriation of foreign earnings, amount			$ 67.5	$ 350.2	$ 2.8
Effective income tax rate reconciliation, foreign income tax rate differential, percent	[1]		19.30%	22.00%	24.80%
Net benefit from release of tax reserves		$ 43.1		$ 42.7	$ 2.5
Jordan Bromine Company Limited
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items
Effective income tax rate reconciliation, foreign income tax rate differential, percent			7.30%	8.20%	12.40%
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 2016, 2015 and 2014, we received actual and deemed distributions of $308.4 million, $1.4 billion and $12.6 million, respectively, from various foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures, and realized an expense, net of foreign tax credits, of $67.5 million, $350.2 million and $2.8 million, respectively, related to the repatriation of these earnings, which impacted our effective tax rate. Our statutory rate is decreased by 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 7.3%, 8.2%, and 12.4% for 2016, 2015, and 2014, 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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Deferred tax assets:
Accrued employee benefits		$ 32,622	$ 25,519
Accrued expenses		10,065	24,581
Operating loss carryovers		91,934	116,686
Pensions		96,635	96,133
Tax credit carryovers		1,029	2,555
Other		34,866	35,557
Gross deferred tax assets		267,151	301,031
Valuation allowance		(69,900)	(84,137)	$ (30,768)	$ (33,757)
Deferred tax assets		197,251	216,894
Deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation		(379,161)	(364,657)
Intangibles		(99,969)	(108,047)
Hedge of Net Investment of Foreign Subsidiary		(51,192)	(36,537)
Other		(18,536)	(16,692)
Deferred tax liabilities		(548,858)	(525,933)
Noncurrent deferred tax assets	[1]	61,132	75,813
Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities		(412,739)	(384,852)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net		$ (351,607)	$ (309,039)
[1]	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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance		$ (84,137)	$ (30,768)		$ (33,757)
Additions		(20,568)	(59,889)	[1]	(1,895)
Deductions		34,805	6,520		4,884
Ending Balance		(69,900)	(84,137)		(30,768)
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Additions related to the acquisition of Rockwood		$ 20,568	59,889	[1]	$ 1,895
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance [Roll Forward]
Additions	[1]		(42,000)
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Additions related to the acquisition of Rockwood	[1]		$ 42,000
[1]	Additions for the year ended December 31, 2015 includes $42.0 million related to the acquisition of Rockwood.

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, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 95,715	$ 24,969	$ 29,143
Acquisition of Rockwood	0	124,758	0
Divestitures(a)	(55,881)	0	0
Additions for tax positions related to prior years	548	4,329	0
Reductions for tax positions related to prior years	(1,253)	(46,211)	(214)
Additions for tax positions related to current year	1,271	202	2,232
Lapses in statutes of limitations/settlements	(12,591)	(6,736)	(5,057)
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(2,425)	(5,596)	(1,135)
Ending Balance	$ 25,384	$ 95,715	$ 24,969

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Tax credit carryovers		$ 1,029	$ 2,555
Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset		69,900	84,137	$ 30,768	$ 33,757
Cumulative undistributed earnings not taxed domestically		3,600,000
Liabilities related to uncertain tax position	[1]	27,919	101,677
Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties and interest accrued		3,000	6,500
Assets offsetting unrecognized tax benefits		15,100	50,900
Unrecognized tax benefits net of offsetting assets		9,800	44,300
Unrecognized tax benefits		25,384	$ 95,715	$ 24,969	$ 29,143
Maximum decrease in the liability related to uncertain tax positions		3,200
Domestic Country
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Tax credit carryovers		1,600
Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset		400
Net operating loss carryovers		114,600
Operating loss carryover, valuation allowance		32,200
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		77,200
Net operating loss carryovers		307,800
Operating loss carryover, valuation allowance		197,500
Chemetall Surface Treatment
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Cumulative undistributed earnings not taxed domestically		$ 2,300,000
[1]	See Note 20, “Income Taxes.”

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

Sep. 30, 2015

Jun. 30, 2015

Mar. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Mar. 31, 2014

Dec. 31, 2016

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]

Other restructuring costs, net

$ 0

$ 2,426

[1]

Restructuring and other, net

$ 0

$ (6,804)

[2]

$ 0

$ 0

$ 0

(6,804)

25,947

Contract Termination

Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]

Restructuring items related to exit of business or contract

$ 6,500

$ 14,000

0

23,521

[3]

Phosphorus Flame Retardant Business Exit

Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]

Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business

$ (6,800)

$ (6,804)

[4]

$ 0

[1]

The amount for 2014 mainly consists of charges 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.

[2]

See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.”

[3]

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.

[4]

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.

Restructuring and Other Rest128

Restructuring and Other Restructuring and Other Reported in Consolidated Statements of Income (Footnote) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Contract Termination
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring items related to exit of business or contract		$ 6,500	$ 14,000	$ 0		$ 23,521	[1]
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	[2]	$ 0
Exit of phosphorus flame retardants business, net of tax	$ 5,400
[1]	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.
[2]	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.

Fair Value of Financial Inst129

Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Long-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Total long-term debt, excluding debt issuance costs	$ 2,381,370	$ 3,834,217
Total long-term debt, fair value, excluding debt issuance costs	$ 2,472,813	$ 3,793,179

Fair Value of Financial Inst130

Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Details) - Forward Contracts - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount	$ 251.6	$ 217.7
Accrued expenses
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Fair value foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities	0.2	0.3
Other income (expenses), net
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Recognized gains (losses) of foreign currency forward contracts	16.1	(38.5)	$ (17.8)
Other, net
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Change in the fair value of foreign currency forward contracts	(16.1)	38.5	17.8
Cash receipts (settlements)	$ 16
Cash receipts (settlements)		$ (37.6)	$ (18.3)

Fair Value Measurement Financia

Fair Value Measurement Financial Assets and Liabilities Accounted for at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($)		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Transfers between levels 1 and 2		$ 0
Investments under executive deferred compensation plan	[1]	22,037,000		$ 21,631,000
Private equity securities	[2]	35,000		31,000
Private equity securities measured at net asset value	[2],[3],[4]	5,498,000		2,595,000
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan	[1]	22,037,000		21,631,000
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities	[5]	182,000		250,000
Total Pension Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		606,957,000		619,995,000
Other Postretirement Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		2,232,000	[4]	3,292,000	[4]	$ 4,439,000
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]	22,037,000		21,631,000
Private equity securities	[2]	35,000		31,000
Private equity securities measured at net asset value		0		0
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan	[1]	22,037,000		21,631,000
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities		0		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]
Fair value of plan assets		460,247,000		481,837,000
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]
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
Private equity securities measured at net asset value		0		0
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan		0		0
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities	[5]	182,000		250,000
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]
Fair value of plan assets		60,598,000		57,412,000
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]
Fair value of plan assets	[4]	2,232,000		3,292,000
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		0		0
Private equity securities measured at net asset value		0		0
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan		0		0
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities		0		0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0		0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Other Postretirement Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0		0
Measured at Fair Value | Total Pension Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	[4]	520,845,000		539,249,000
Measured at Fair Value | 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]
Fair value of plan assets	[4]	460,247,000		481,837,000
Measured at Fair Value | 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]
Fair value of plan assets	[4]	60,598,000		57,412,000
Measured at Fair Value | Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0		0
Absolute Return Measured At Net Asset Value | Total Pension Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	[6]	86,112,000		80,746,000
Absolute Return Measured At Net Asset Value | 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]
Fair value of plan assets		0		0
Absolute Return Measured At Net Asset Value | 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]
Fair value of plan assets		0		0
Absolute Return Measured At Net Asset Value | Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Total Pension Benefits
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
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.
[3]	Holdings in private equity securities are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient and have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy as a result of the adoption of new accounting guidance effective January 1, 2016 on a retrospective basis. The fair value amounts of $5.5 million and $2.6 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, are included in this table to permit reconciliation to the marketable equity securities presented in Note 10, “Investments.” See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” for additional information.
[4]	See Note 15 “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits” for further information about fair value measurements of our pension and postretirement plan assets
[5]	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.
[6]	Consists primarily of funds with holdings in private investment companies. See additional information about the Absolute Return investments below. Holdings in private investment companies are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share as a practical expedient and have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy as a result of the adoption of new accounting guidance effective January 1, 2016 on a retrospective basis. The fair value amounts of $86.1 million and $80.7 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, are included in this table to permit reconciliation to the reconciliation of plan assets table above. See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” for additional information.

Related Party Transactions (Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) - Unconsolidated Affiliates - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Sales to unconsolidated affiliates	$ 29,651	$ 24,180	$ 45,415
Purchases from unconsolidated affiliates	$ 130,287	$ 115,697	$ 64,631

Segment and Geographic Area 133

Segment and Geographic Area Information - Additional Information (Details) - segment	Jan. 01, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments		3
Performance Chemicals
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments	2

Segment and Geographic Area 134

Segment and Geographic Area Information Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016		Sep. 30, 2016		Jun. 30, 2016		Mar. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales		$ 696,655		$ 654,010		$ 669,327		$ 657,211		$ 722,610		$ 693,216		$ 718,290		$ 692,313		$ 2,677,203		$ 2,826,429		$ 2,445,548
Adjusted EBITDA																		(758,217)		(756,000)		(562,155)
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation		(602,090)		(128,220)		314,821		(228,186)		(174,252)	[1]	(65,392)		(52,147)		(43,115)		(643,675)		(334,906)		(133,316)
Depreciation and amortization																		226,169		260,076		103,572
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net		0	[2]	0	[2]	(974)	[2]	(121,324)	[2]									(122,298)		0		0
Restructuring and other, net										0		(6,804)	[3]	0		0		0		(6,804)		25,947
Acquisition and integration related costs		13,047	[4]	6,749	[4]	19,030	[4]	18,558	[4]	15,128	[4]	36,514	[4]	22,832	[4]	57,825	[4]	57,384		132,299		30,158
Interest and financing expenses																		65,181		81,650		41,358
Income tax expense																		96,263		11,134		18,484
(Income) loss from discontinued operations (net of tax)		$ (559,974)		$ (23,185)		$ 398,340	[5]	$ (17,312)		$ (13,402)		$ (11,030)		$ (10,148)		$ 2,104		(202,131)		(32,476)		69,531
Lithium and Advanced Materials
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales																		968,216		834,590		312,788
All Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales																		180,988		471,434		471,764
Adjusted EBITDA																		(14,772)		(53,993)		(73,973)
Depreciation and amortization																		7,302		18,183		13,478
Reportable Segments | Lithium and Advanced Materials
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales																		968,216		834,590		312,788
Adjusted EBITDA																		(363,360)		(312,867)		(81,596)
Depreciation and amortization																		101,966		84,069		15,790
Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales																		792,425		775,729		808,857
Adjusted EBITDA																		(226,926)		(222,653)		(224,976)
Depreciation and amortization																		39,562		36,179		35,917
Reportable Segments | Refining Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales																		732,137		729,261		852,139
Adjusted EBITDA																		(238,963)		(197,595)		(256,485)
Depreciation and amortization																		36,089		34,039		32,670
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales																		3,437		15,415		0
Adjusted EBITDA																		85,804		31,108		74,875
Depreciation and amortization																		6,056		8,703		2,552
Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		758,217		756,000		562,155
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		643,675		334,906		133,316
Depreciation and amortization																		190,975		181,173		100,407
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net	[6]																	(122,298)
Utilization of inventory markup	[7]																			83,006
Restructuring and other, net	[8]																			(6,804)		25,947
Acquisition and integration related costs	[9]																	57,384		132,299		30,158
Interest and financing expenses																		65,181		81,650		41,358
Income tax expense																		96,263		11,134		18,484
(Income) loss from discontinued operations (net of tax)																		(202,131)		(32,476)		69,531
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		25,589		(35,300)		125,462
Other																		3,579	[10]	6,412	[11]	17,492	[11]
Continuing Operations | All Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		14,772		53,993		73,973
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		131,301		32,781		60,495
Depreciation and amortization																		7,302		18,183		13,478
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net	[6]																	(123,831)
Utilization of inventory markup	[7]																			3,029
Restructuring and other, net	[8]																			0		0
Acquisition and integration related costs	[9]																	0		0		0
Interest and financing expenses																		0		0		0
Income tax expense																		0		0		0
(Income) loss from discontinued operations (net of tax)																		0		0		0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		0		0		0
Other																		0	[10]	0	[11]	0	[11]
Continuing Operations | Reportable Segments | Lithium and Advanced Materials
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		363,360		312,867		81,596
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		261,394		148,821		65,806
Depreciation and amortization																		101,966		84,069		15,790
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net	[6]																	0
Utilization of inventory markup	[7]																			79,977
Restructuring and other, net	[8]																			0		0
Acquisition and integration related costs	[9]																	0		0		0
Interest and financing expenses																		0		0		0
Income tax expense																		0		0		0
(Income) loss from discontinued operations (net of tax)																		0		0		0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		0		0		0
Other																		0	[10]	0	[11]	0	[11]
Continuing Operations | Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		226,926		222,653		224,976
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		187,364		186,474		189,059
Depreciation and amortization																		39,562		36,179		35,917
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net	[6]																	0
Utilization of inventory markup	[7]																			0
Restructuring and other, net	[8]																			0		0
Acquisition and integration related costs	[9]																	0		0		0
Interest and financing expenses																		0		0		0
Income tax expense																		0		0		0
(Income) loss from discontinued operations (net of tax)																		0		0		0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		0		0		0
Other																		0	[10]	0	[11]	0	[11]
Continuing Operations | Reportable Segments | Refining Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		238,963		197,595		256,485
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		202,874		161,585		223,815
Depreciation and amortization																		36,089		34,039		32,670
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net	[6]																	0
Utilization of inventory markup	[7]																			0
Restructuring and other, net	[8]																			0		0
Acquisition and integration related costs	[9]																	0		0		0
Interest and financing expenses																		0		0		0
Income tax expense																		0		0		0
(Income) loss from discontinued operations (net of tax)																		0		0		0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		0		0		0
Other																		0	[10]	1,971	[11]	0	[11]
Continuing Operations | Reportable Segments | Reportable Segments Total
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		829,249		733,115		563,057
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		651,632		496,880		478,680
Depreciation and amortization																		177,617		154,287		84,377
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net	[6]																	0
Utilization of inventory markup	[7]																			79,977
Restructuring and other, net	[8]																			0		0
Acquisition and integration related costs	[9]																	0		0		0
Interest and financing expenses																		0		0		0
Income tax expense																		0		0		0
(Income) loss from discontinued operations (net of tax)																		0		0		0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		0		0		0
Other																		0	[10]	1,971	[11]	0	[11]
Continuing Operations | Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA																		(85,804)		(31,108)		(74,875)
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation																		(139,258)		(194,755)		(405,859)
Depreciation and amortization																		6,056		8,703		2,552
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net	[6]																	1,533
Utilization of inventory markup	[7]																			0
Restructuring and other, net	[8]																			(6,804)		25,947
Acquisition and integration related costs	[9]																	57,384		132,299		30,158
Interest and financing expenses																		65,181		81,650		41,358
Income tax expense																		96,263		11,134		18,484
(Income) loss from discontinued operations (net of tax)																		(202,131)		(32,476)		69,531
Non-operating pension and OPEB items																		25,589		(35,300)		125,462
Other																		$ 3,579	[10]	$ 4,441	[11]	$ 17,492	[11]
[1]	The fourth quarter of 2015 includes an income tax benefit of $43.1 million primarily related to the release of certain tax reserves associated with lapses in statutes of limitations and audit closures.
[2]	Included in Gain on sales of businesses, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 is $11.5 million and $112.3 million related to the sales of the metal sulfides business and the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business, respectively, both of which closed in the first quarter of 2016. In addition, Gain on sales of businesses, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 includes a loss of $1.5 million on the sale of our wafer reclaim business. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[3]	See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.”
[4]	See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information.
[5]	Included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the second quarter of 2016 is a nonrecurring, non-cash tax charge of $416.7 million related to the change in the Company’s assertion over book and tax basis differences for certain entities included in the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business. In the fourth quarter of 2016, this non-cash tax charge was reversed as a result of the completion of the sale. In addition, the fourth quarter of 2016 includes an after-tax gain of $135.0 million as a result of the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business.
[6]	See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[7]	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 $103.4 million. The inventory markup was expensed over the estimated remaining selling period. For the year ended December 31, 2015, $55.9 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.
[8]	See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other,” for additional information.
[9]	See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information.
[10]	Includes amounts recorded in (1) Research and development expenses related to the write-off of fixed assets of $1.4 million; (2) Selling, general and administrative expenses related to the net loss on the sales of properties of $0.9 million and (3) Other income (expenses), net related to environmental charges related to a site formerly owned by Albemarle of $2.4 million, partially offset by a gain related to a previously disposed of site in China of $1.1 million.
[11]	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 135

Segment and Geographic Area Information Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments (Footnote) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Jan. 12, 2015
Research and development expenses
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Write-off of fixed assets	$ 1.4
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net (loss) gain on sales of properties	(0.9)
Other income (expenses), net
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net (loss) gain on sales of properties	1.1
Environmental charges	$ 2.4
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Inventory markup				$ 103.4
Utilization of inventory markup		$ 103.4
Rockwood Holdings, Inc. | Cost of sales
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Utilization of inventory markup		55.9
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 136

Segment and Geographic Area Information Identifiable Assets and Goodwill by Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	$ 8,161,207		$ 9,597,954		$ 5,202,437
Goodwill	1,540,032		1,460,552	[1],[2]	243,262	[2]
All Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	130,595		517,695		268,555
Goodwill	6,586		0	[1],[2]	8,589	[2]
Reportable Segments | Lithium and Advanced Materials
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	3,809,883		3,658,669		351,175
Goodwill	1,348,261		1,267,505	[1],[2]	21,697	[2]
Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	724,218		699,929		734,071
Goodwill	20,319		20,319	[1],[2]	20,319	[2]
Reportable Segments | Refining Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	913,923		937,445		1,100,361
Goodwill	164,866		172,728	[1],[2]	192,657	[2]
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	2,582,588	[3]	575,314		2,748,275	[3]
Discontinued Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	$ 0		$ 3,208,902		$ 0
[1]	As of December 31, 2015, $1.5 billion of Goodwill was classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[2]	The December 31, 2015 and 2014 balances have been recast to reflect a change in segments. See Note 25, “Segment and Geographic Area Information,” for further details.
[3]	As of December 31, 2016, Corporate included the net proceeds received from the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business completed on December 14, 2016, less the repayment of the term loans and commercial paper using those proceeds. 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 2, “Acquisitions,” Note 3, “Divestitures,” and Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” for additional details about these transactions.

Segment and Geographic Area 137

Segment and Geographic Area Information Depreciation and Amortization and Capital Expenditures by Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	$ 226,169	$ 260,076	$ 103,572
Capital expenditures	196,654	227,649	110,576
All Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	7,302	18,183	13,478
Capital expenditures	9,251	13,054	9,053
Reportable Segments | Lithium and Advanced Materials
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	101,966	84,069	15,790
Capital expenditures	91,967	104,344	12,888
Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	39,562	36,179	35,917
Capital expenditures	46,414	54,994	39,392
Reportable Segments | Refining Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	36,089	34,039	32,670
Capital expenditures	27,546	28,836	49,219
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	6,056	8,703	2,552
Capital expenditures	2,195	2,683	24
Discontinued Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	35,194	78,903	3,165
Capital expenditures	$ 19,281	$ 23,738	$ 0

Segment and Geographic Area 138

Segment and Geographic Area Information Net Sales by Geographic Area (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 696,655	$ 654,010	$ 669,327	$ 657,211	$ 722,610	$ 693,216	$ 718,290	$ 692,313	$ 2,677,203		$ 2,826,429	$ 2,445,548
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									797,267		911,519	884,373
Foreign
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 1,879,936	[1]	$ 1,914,910	$ 1,561,175
[1]	In 2016, net sales to China represented 13% of total net sales. No net sales in any other 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 139

Segment and Geographic Area Information Long-Lived Assets by Geographic Area (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	$ 2,793,599	$ 2,735,879	$ 1,405,423
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	850,689	800,214	698,863
Chile
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	922,878	916,965	0
Netherlands
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	145,917	155,128	167,965
Jordan
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	227,222	230,460	227,805
Australia
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	288,553	280,222	0
Brazil
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	46,380	39,299	59,474
Germany
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	117,027	137,890	75,813
China
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	31,564	4,773	5,310
France
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	39,470	39,344	37,347
Korea
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	65,963	72,685	80,362
United Kingdom
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	3,665	3,665	3,665
Other foreign countries
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	$ 54,271	$ 55,234	$ 48,819

Segment and Geographic Area 140

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, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 696,655	$ 654,010	$ 669,327	$ 657,211	$ 722,610	$ 693,216	$ 718,290	$ 692,313	$ 2,677,203	$ 2,826,429	$ 2,445,548
Lithium and Advanced Materials
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									968,216	834,590	312,788
Lithium and Advanced Materials | Lithium
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									668,852	508,844	0
Lithium and Advanced Materials | Performance Catalyst Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									299,364	325,746	312,788
Bromine Specialties | Bromine Specialties
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									792,425	775,729	808,857
Refining Solutions | Refining Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 732,137	$ 729,261	$ 852,139

Quarterly Financial Summary 141

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended																12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016		Sep. 30, 2016		Jun. 30, 2016		Mar. 31, 2016		Dec. 31, 2015		Sep. 30, 2015		Jun. 30, 2015		Mar. 31, 2015		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 696,655		$ 654,010		$ 669,327		$ 657,211		$ 722,610		$ 693,216		$ 718,290		$ 692,313		$ 2,677,203	$ 2,826,429	$ 2,445,548
Gross profit	240,966		238,972		248,104		242,534		237,773		219,045		212,031		191,384		970,576	860,233	770,848
Gain on sales of businesses, net	0	[1]	0	[1]	(974)	[1]	(121,324)	[1]									(122,298)	0	0
Restructuring and other, net									0		(6,804)	[2]	0		0		0	(6,804)	25,947
Acquisition and integration related costs	13,047	[3]	6,749	[3]	19,030	[3]	18,558	[3]	15,128	[3]	36,514	[3]	22,832	[3]	57,825	[3]	57,384	132,299	30,158
Net income from continuing operations(e)	50,304		114,512		95,586		218,236		169,275	[4]	59,842		49,218		49,253		478,638	327,588	230,437
Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)	559,974		23,185		(398,340)	[5]	17,312		13,402		11,030		10,148		(2,104)		202,131	32,476	(69,531)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(8,188)		(9,477)		(12,067)		(7,362)		(8,425)		(5,480)		(7,219)		(4,034)		(37,094)	(25,158)	(27,590)
Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$ 602,090		$ 128,220		$ (314,821)		$ 228,186		$ 174,252	[4]	$ 65,392		$ 52,147		$ 43,115		$ 643,675	$ 334,906	$ 133,316
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 0.37		$ 0.93		$ 0.74		$ 1.88		$ 1.43	[4]	$ 0.48		$ 0.37		$ 0.42		$ 3.93	$ 2.72	$ 2.57
Basic earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	4.98		0.21		(3.54)		0.15		0.12		0.10		0.09		(0.02)		1.80	0.29	(0.88)
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 5.35		$ 1.14		$ (2.80)		$ 2.03		$ 1.55		$ 0.58		$ 0.46		$ 0.40		$ 5.73	$ 3.01	$ 1.69
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—basic (in shares)	112,487		112,429		112,339		112,260		112,207		112,202		112,189		108,130		112,379	111,182	78,696
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 0.37		$ 0.93		$ 0.74		$ 1.87		$ 1.43	[4]	$ 0.48		$ 0.37		$ 0.42		$ 3.9	$ 2.71	$ 2.57
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	4.93		0.20		(3.52)		0.15		0.12		0.10		0.09		(0.02)		1.78	0.29	(0.88)
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 5.30		$ 1.13		$ (2.78)		$ 2.02		$ 1.55		$ 0.58		$ 0.46		$ 0.40		$ 5.68	$ 3	$ 1.69
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—diluted (in shares)	113,563		113,448		113,175		112,770		112,608		112,544		112,607		108,464		113,239	111,556	79,102
[1]	Included in Gain on sales of businesses, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 is $11.5 million and $112.3 million related to the sales of the metal sulfides business and the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business, respectively, both of which closed in the first quarter of 2016. In addition, Gain on sales of businesses, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 includes a loss of $1.5 million on the sale of our wafer reclaim business. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
[2]	See Note 21, “Restructuring and Other.”
[3]	See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information.
[4]	The fourth quarter of 2015 includes an income tax benefit of $43.1 million primarily related to the release of certain tax reserves associated with lapses in statutes of limitations and audit closures.
[5]	Included in Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the second quarter of 2016 is a nonrecurring, non-cash tax charge of $416.7 million related to the change in the Company’s assertion over book and tax basis differences for certain entities included in the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business. In the fourth quarter of 2016, this non-cash tax charge was reversed as a result of the completion of the sale. In addition, the fourth quarter of 2016 includes an after-tax gain of $135.0 million as a result of the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business.

Quarterly Financial Summary 142

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) (Footnote) (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2016

Sep. 30, 2016

[1]

Jun. 30, 2016

Mar. 31, 2016

[1]

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2016

Dec. 31, 2015

Dec. 31, 2014

Gain (loss) on sales of businesses, net

$ 0

[1]

$ 0

$ 974

[1]

$ 121,324

$ 122,298

$ 0

$ 0

Net benefit from release of tax reserves

$ 43,100

$ 42,700

$ 2,500

Metal Sulfides Business

Gain (loss) on sales of businesses, net

11,500

Mineral Flame Retardants and Specialty Chemicals Businesses

Gain (loss) on sales of businesses, net

112,300

Chemetall Surface Treatment

Discrete non-cash charge

$ 416,700

Gain on sale of business, net of tax

$ 135,000

Corporate | Wafer Reclaim

Gain (loss) on sales of businesses, net

$ (1,500)

[1]

Included in Gain on sales of businesses, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 is $11.5 million and $112.3 million related to the sales of the metal sulfides business and the minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business, respectively, both of which closed in the first quarter of 2016. In addition, Gain on sales of businesses, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 includes a loss of $1.5 million on the sale of our wafer reclaim business. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Quarterly Financial Summary 143

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Actuarial gain (loss)	$ (26.7)	$ 30.1
Actuarial gain (loss), net of income tax	$ (18.3)	$ 21.4