Albemarle (ALB) 10-K 27 Feb 19 2018 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Feb. 20, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018
Document And Entity Information [Abstract] [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2018
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,018
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 Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Shell Company	false
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		105,753,864
Entity Public Float			$ 10.2

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCO

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 3,374,950	$ 3,071,976	$ 2,677,203
Cost of goods sold	2,157,694	1,965,700	1,706,897
Gross profit	1,217,256	1,106,276	970,306
Selling, general and administrative expenses	446,090	450,286	353,765
Research and development expenses	70,054	84,330	80,475
Gain on sales of businesses, net	(210,428)	0	(122,298)
Acquisition and integration related costs	0	0	57,384
Operating profit	911,540	571,660	600,980
Interest and financing expenses	(52,405)	(115,350)	(65,181)
Other expenses, net	(64,434)	(9,512)	(20,535)
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	794,701	446,798	515,264
Income tax expense	144,826	431,817	96,263
Income from continuing operations before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	649,875	14,981	419,001
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)	89,264	84,487	59,637
Net income from continuing operations	739,139	99,468	478,638
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)	0	0	202,131
Net income	739,139	99,468	680,769
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(45,577)	(44,618)	(37,094)
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$ 693,562	$ 54,850	$ 643,675
Basic earnings per share:
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 6.40	$ 0.49	$ 3.93
Basic earnings per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	0	0	1.80
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)	6.40	0.49	5.73
Diluted earnings per share:
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	6.34	0.49	3.90
Diluted earnings per share from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	0	0	1.78
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 6.34	$ 0.49	$ 5.68
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—basic (in shares)	108,427	110,914	112,379
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—diluted (in shares)	109,458	112,380	113,239

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 739,139	$ 99,468	$ 680,769
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation	(150,258)	227,439	(20,825)
Pension and postretirement benefits	(138)	(97)	834
Net investment hedge	25,786	(41,827)	26,133
Interest rate swap	(585)	2,116	2,116
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(125,195)	187,631	8,258
Comprehensive income	613,944	287,099	689,027
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(45,396)	(45,505)	(36,477)
Comprehensive income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$ 568,548	$ 241,594	$ 652,550

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 555,320	$ 1,137,303
Trade accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts (2018—$4,460; 2017—$10,425)	605,712	534,326
Other accounts receivable	52,059	37,937
Inventories	700,540	592,781
Other current assets	84,790	136,064
Assets held for sale	0	39,152
Total current assets	1,998,421	2,477,563
Property, plant and equipment, at cost	4,799,063	4,124,335
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	1,777,979	1,631,025
Net property, plant and equipment	3,021,084	2,493,310
Investments	528,722	534,064
Noncurrent assets held for sale	0	139,813
Other assets	80,135	74,164
Goodwill	1,567,169	1,610,355
Other intangibles, net of amortization	386,143	421,503
Total assets	7,581,674	7,750,772
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	522,516	418,537
Accrued expenses	257,323	268,336
Current portion of long-term debt	307,294	422,012
Dividends payable	35,169	35,165
Liabilities held for sale	0	1,938
Income taxes payable	60,871	54,937
Total current liabilities	1,183,173	1,200,925
Long-term debt	1,397,916	1,415,360
Postretirement benefits	46,157	52,003
Pension benefits	285,396	294,611
Noncurrent liabilities held for sale	0	614
Other noncurrent liabilities	526,942	599,174
Deferred income taxes	382,982	370,389
Commitments and contingencies
Albemarle Corporation shareholders’ equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value (authorized 150,000 shares), issued and outstanding — 105,616 in 2018 and 110,547 in 2017	1,056	1,105
Additional paid-in capital	1,368,897	1,863,949
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(350,682)	(225,668)
Retained earnings	2,566,050	2,035,163
Total Albemarle Corporation shareholders’ equity	3,585,321	3,674,549
Noncontrolling interests	173,787	143,147
Total equity	3,759,108	3,817,696
Total liabilities and equity	$ 7,581,674	$ 7,750,772

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Trade accounts receivables, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 4,460	$ 10,425
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	105,616,000	110,547,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	105,616,000	110,547,000

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHAN

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income	Retained Earnings	Total Albemarle Shareholders’ Equity	Noncontrolling Interests
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015		112,219,351
Beginning 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
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
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	99,468				54,850	54,850	44,618
Other comprehensive income (loss)	187,631			186,744		186,744	887
Cash dividends declared	(178,374)				(141,618)	(141,618)	(36,756)
Stock-based compensation and other	16,505		16,505			16,505
Exercise of stock options (in shares)		210,432
Exercise of stock options	8,238	$ 2	8,236			8,238
Shares repurchased (in shares)		(2,341,083)
Shares repurchased	(250,000)	$ (23)	(249,977)			(250,000)
Issuance of common stock, net (in shares)		243,024
Issuance of common stock, net	0	$ 2	(2)			0
Termination of Tianqi Lithium Corporation option agreement	0		13,144			13,144	(13,144)
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances (in shares)		(89,489)
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances	(8,376)	$ (1)	(8,375)			(8,376)
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2017		110,546,674
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2017	3,817,696	$ 1,105	1,863,949	(225,668)	2,035,163	3,674,549	143,147
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	739,139				693,562	693,562	45,577
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(125,195)			(125,014)		(125,014)	(181)
Cash dividends declared	(159,357)				(144,601)	(144,601)	(14,756)
Cumulative adjustments from adoption of income tax standard updates (Note 1)	(18,074)				(18,074)	(18,074)
Stock-based compensation and other	$ 18,506		18,506			18,506
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	94,031	94,031
Exercise of stock options	$ 3,633	$ 1	3,632			3,633
Shares repurchased (in shares)		(5,262,654)
Shares repurchased	(500,000)	$ (53)	(499,947)			(500,000)
Issuance of common stock, net (in shares)		383,974
Issuance of common stock, net	0	$ 4	(4)			0
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances (in shares)		(145,997)
Shares withheld for withholding taxes associated with common stock issuances	(17,240)	$ (1)	(17,239)			(17,240)
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2018		105,616,028
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2018	$ 3,759,108	$ 1,056	$ 1,368,897	$ (350,682)	$ 2,566,050	$ 3,585,321	$ 173,787

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CH_2

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Cash dividends declared (in dollars per share)	$ 1.34	$ 1.28	$ 1.22

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	$ 1,137,303	$ 2,269,756	$ 213,734
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	739,139	99,468	680,769
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	200,698	196,928	226,169
Gain on acquisition	0	(6,221)	0
Gain on sales of businesses, net	(210,428)	0	(510,278)
Stock-based compensation	15,228	19,404	17,031
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)	(89,264)	(84,487)	(61,534)
Dividends received from unconsolidated investments and nonmarketable securities	57,415	39,386	43,759
Pension and postretirement expense (benefit)	10,410	(12,436)	41,546
Pension and postretirement contributions	(15,236)	(13,341)	(20,068)
Unrealized gain on investments in marketable securities	(527)	(3,135)	(3,655)
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	0	52,801	1,921
Deferred income taxes	49,164	(41,941)	21,121
Changes in current assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and divestitures:
(Increase) in accounts receivable	(97,448)	(74,545)	(42,816)
(Increase) decrease in inventories	(124,067)	(101,545)	25,974
(Increase) decrease in other current assets	(2,181)	(213)	1,808
Increase in accounts payable	73,730	53,421	43,953
(Decrease) increase in accrued expenses and income taxes payable	(1,999)	(269,381)	210,276
Other, net	(58,469)	449,816	59,548
Net cash provided by operating activities	546,165	303,979	735,524
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(11,403)	(44,367)	(126,747)
Cash payments related to acquisitions and other	0	0	(81,987)
Capital expenditures	(699,991)	(317,703)	(196,654)
Cash proceeds from divestitures, net	413,569	6,857	3,325,571
(Investments in) sales of marketable securities, net	(270)	(275)	305
Repayments from joint ventures	0	1,250	0
Investments in equity and other corporate investments	(5,600)	(3,565)	0
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	(303,695)	(357,803)	2,920,488
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from borrowings of other long-term debt	0	27,000	0
Repayments of long-term debt	0	(778,209)	(1,252,302)
Other (repayments) borrowings, net	(113,567)	138,751	(163,721)
Fees related to early extinguishment of debt	0	(46,959)	0
Dividends paid to shareholders	(144,596)	(140,557)	(135,353)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests	(14,756)	(36,756)	(35,855)
Repurchases of common stock	(500,000)	(250,000)	0
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	3,633	8,238	9,401
Withholding taxes paid on stock-based compensation award distributions	(17,240)	(8,376)	(2,194)
Net cash used in financing activities	(786,526)	(1,086,868)	(1,580,024)
Net effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents	(37,927)	8,239	(19,966)
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	(581,983)	(1,132,453)	2,056,022
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$ 555,320	$ 1,137,303	$ 2,269,756

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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. Discontinued Operations 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, 2017 related to the polyolefin catalysts and components business 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 the year ended December 31, 2016. 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. Income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2017 includes expense of $5.1 million due to an adjustment in the Company’s deferred tax liabilities for basis differences in Chilean fixed assets related to the year ended December 31, 2016. The Company does not believe this adjustment is material to the consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2017 or 2016. In addition, for the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company began reporting its acquisition and integration related costs and restructuring and other costs in Cost of goods sold, Selling, general and administrative expenses and Research and development expenses. See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” and Note 24, “Segment and Geographic Area Information,” for further details. Revenue Recognition Effective January 1, 2018, we adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” and all related amendments using the modified retrospective method. There was no material impact to our results of operations or financial position upon adoption, and no adjustment was made to Retained earnings in our consolidated balance sheets because such adjustment was determined to be immaterial. In addition, new presentation requirements, including separate disclosure of net sales from sources other than customers on our consolidated statements of income and separate disclosures of contract assets or liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets, generally did not have a material impact. However, business circumstances, including the nature of customer contracts, can change and as such, we have expanded processes and controls to recognize such changes, and as necessary, consider whether any of these currently immaterial items might differ in the future. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for transferring goods or providing services, and is recognized when performance obligations are satisfied under the terms of contracts with our customers. A performance obligation is deemed to be satisfied when control of the product or service is transferred to our customer. The transaction price of a contract, or the amount we expect to receive upon satisfaction of all performance obligations, is determined by reference to the contract’s terms and includes adjustments, if applicable, for any variable consideration, such as customer rebates, noncash consideration or consideration payable to the customer, although these adjustments are generally not material. Where a contract contains more than one distinct performance obligation, the transaction price is allocated to each performance obligation based on the standalone selling price of each performance obligation, although these situations do not occur frequently and are generally not built into our contracts. Any unsatisfied performance obligations are not material. Standalone selling prices are based on prices we charge to our customers, which in some cases is based on established market prices. Sales and other similar taxes collected from customers on behalf of third parties are excluded from revenue. Our payment terms are generally between 30 to 90 days, however, they vary by market factors, such as customer size, creditworthiness, geography and competitive environment. All of our revenue is derived from contracts with customers, and almost all of our contracts with customers contain one performance obligation for the transfer of goods where such performance obligation is satisfied at a point in time. Control of a product is deemed to be transferred to the customer upon shipment or delivery. Significant portions of our sales are sold free on board shipping point or on an equivalent basis, while delivery terms of 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, while the timing between shipment and delivery generally ranges between 1 and 45 days. Costs for shipping and handling activities, whether performed before or after the customer obtains control of the goods, are accounted for as fulfillment costs. The Company currently utilizes the following practical expedients, as permitted by Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers : • All sales and other pass-through taxes are excluded from contract value; • In utilizing the modified retrospective transition method, no adjustment was necessary for contracts that did not cross over the reporting year; • We will not consider the possibility of a contract having a significant financing component (which would effectively attribute a portion of the sales price to interest income) unless, if at contract inception, the expected payment terms (from time of delivery or other relevant criterion) are more than one year; • If our right to customer payment is directly related to the value of our completed performance, we recognize revenue consistent with the invoicing right; and • We expense as incurred all costs of obtaining a contract incremental to any costs/compensation attributable to individual product sales/shipments for contracts where the amortization period for such costs would otherwise be one year or less. Certain products we produce are made to our customer’s specifications where such products have limited alternative use or would need significant rework costs in order to be sold to another customer. In management’s judgment, control of these arrangements is transferred to the customer at a point in time (upon shipment or delivery) and not over the time they are produced. Therefore revenue is recognized upon shipment or delivery of these products. Costs incurred to obtain contracts with customers are not significant and are expensed immediately as the amortization period would be one year or less. When the Company incurs pre-production or other fulfillment costs in connection with an existing or specific anticipated contract and such costs are recoverable through margin or explicitly reimbursable, such costs are capitalized and amortized to Cost of goods sold on a systematic basis that is consistent with the pattern of transfer to the customer of the goods or services to which the asset relates, which is less than one year. We record bad debt expense in specific situations when we determine the customer is unable to meet its financial obligation. Included in Trade accounts receivable at December 31, 2018 is approximately $590.3 million arising from contracts with customers. The remaining balance of Trade accounts receivable at December 31, 2018 primarily includes value-added taxes collected from customers on behalf of various taxing authorities. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash and money market investments with insignificant interest rate risks and no limitations on access. Inventories Inventories are stated at lower of cost and net realizable value 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. Resource Development Expenses We incur costs in resource exploration, evaluation and development during the different phases of our resource development projects. Exploration costs incurred before obtaining legal rights to explore an area are generally expensed as incurred. After obtaining legal rights, exploration costs are expensed in areas where we have uncertainty about obtaining proven resources. In areas where we have substantial knowledge about the area and consider it probable to obtain commercially viable proven resources, exploration and evaluation costs are capitalized. If technical feasibility studies have been obtained, resource evaluation expenses are capitalized when the study demonstrates proven or probable resources for which future economic returns are expected, while costs for projects that are not considered viable are expensed. Development costs that are necessary to bring the property to commercial production or increase the capacity or useful life are capitalized. Costs to maintain the production capacity in a property under production are expensed as incurred. Capitalized resource costs are depleted using the units-of-production method. Our resource development assets are evaluated for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. 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. 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, if the calculated discount is material. 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. Our reporting units are either our operating business segments or one level below our operating business segments for which discrete financial information is available and for which operating results are regularly reviewed by the business management. 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, 2018 and concluded there was no impairment as of that date. In addition, no material 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 and customer lists, 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 the majority of 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 2018 , 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 2018 , 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, 2018 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 2017, the Society of Actuaries (“SOA”) published an updated Mortality Improvement Scale, MP-2017. The updated improvement scale incorporates an additional year of mortality data (2015). 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-2017 Mortality Improvement Scale for purposes of measuring our U.S. pension and OPEB obligations at December 31, 2017. In October 2018, the SOA published an updated Mortality Improvement Scale, MP-2018. The updated Improvement Scale incorporates an additional year of mortality (2016). 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-2018 Mortality Improvement Scale for purposes of measuring our U.S. pension and OPEB obligations at December 31, 2018. 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 Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) 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. Tax effects are released from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income using either the specific identification approach or the portfolio approach based on the nature of the underlying item. 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 a portion 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. Our foreign earnings are computed under U.S. federal tax earnings and profits, or E&P, principles. In general, to the extent our financial reporting book basis over tax basis of a foreign subsidiary exceeds these E&P amounts, deferred taxes have not been provided as they are essentially permanent in duration. The determination of the amount of such unrecognized deferred tax liability is not practicable. We provide for deferred income taxes on our undistributed earnings of foreign operations that are not deemed to be indefinitely invested. Management’s assertion of indefinite reinvestment of undistributed foreign earnings was unchanged within the measurement period ending December 22, 2018, as allowed under Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) 118. We will continue to evaluate our permanent investment assertion taking into consideration all relevant, current tax laws. On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJA”) was signed into law in the U.S. The TCJA contains several key tax provisions including, among other things, the reduction of the corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018, the requirement of companies to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred, and the creation of new taxes on certain foreign sourced earnings such as global intangible low-taxed income (“GILTI”). A company can elect an accounting policy to account for GILTI as a period charge in the future period the tax arises or as part of deferred taxes related to the investment or subsidiary. The Company has elected to account for GILTI as a period cost. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated other comprehensive loss 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 and revaluation (losses) gains were ($10.5) million , ($11.1) million and $2.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, and are included in Other expenses, net, in our consolidated statements of income, with the unrealized portion included in Other, net, in our consolidated statements of cash flows. 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 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 f

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Acquisitions: Sales de Magnesio, Ltda. On February 1, 2017, the Company acquired the remaining 50% interest in the Sales de Magnesio Ltda. (“Salmag”) joint venture in Chile from SQM Salar S.A. for approximately $8.3 million , net of cash acquired. In connection with the acquisition, the Company recorded a gain of $6.2 million , calculated based on the difference between the purchase price and the book value of the investment in Other expenses, net on the consolidated statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2017. Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. 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. (“Jiangli New Materials”) 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 has enabled 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 allocation of the Jiangli New Materials acquisition was finalized in the fourth quarter of 2017. The fair values of the assets and liabilities acquired were primarily related to Accounts receivable of $0.6 million , Property, plant and equipment of $24.1 million , Other intangibles of $46.3 million , Accounts payable of $2.8 million and Deferred tax liabilities of $6.3 million . In addition, the estimated fair value of the remaining net working capital acquired was $6.2 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 estimated fair value of the net assets acquired was approximately $83.1 million and was recorded as goodwill. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company purchased inventory with a fair value of $37.1 million in connection with the Jiangli New Materials acquisition. The fair value included the markup of the underlying book value of $23.1 million , which was expensed in Cost of goods sold during the year ended December 31, 2017, the estimated remaining selling period. 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. The weighted-average amortization periods for the other intangible assets acquired are 20 years for patents and technology, 13 years for customer lists and relationships and 20 years for other. The weighted-average amortization period for all definite-lived intangible assets acquired is 17 years. Acquisition and integration related costs for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 of $3.7 million and $14.3 million , respectively, were included in Cost of goods sold and $15.7 million and $19.6 million , respectively, were included in Selling, general and administrative expenses on our consolidated statements of income. These acquisition and integration related costs relate to various significant projects, including the Jiangli New Materials acquisition, which contains non-routine compensation related costs negotiated specifically as a result of this acquisition that are outside of the Company’s ordinary compensation arrangements. Included in Acquisition and integration related costs on our consolidated statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2016 is $52.1 million of integration costs resulting from the acquisition of Rockwood Holdings, Inc. (“Rockwood”) (mainly consisting of professional services fees, costs to achieve synergies, relocation costs, and other integration costs) and $5.3 million of costs in connection with other significant projects.

Divestitures

Divestitures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]	Divestitures: Polyolefin Catalysts and Components Business On December 14, 2017, the Company signed a definitive agreement to sell the polyolefin catalysts and components portion of its Performance Catalyst Solutions (“PCS”) business (“Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture”) to W.R. Grace & Co., with the sale closing on April 3, 2018. We received net cash proceeds of approximately $413.6 million and have recorded a gain of $210.4 million before income taxes in 2018 related to the sale of this business. The transaction includes Albemarle’s Product Development Center located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and operations at its Yeosu, South Korea site. The sale does not include the Company’s organometallics or curatives portion of its PCS business. The Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture reflects the Company’s commitment to investing in the future growth of its high priority businesses and returning capital to shareholders. In the fourth quarter of 2017, we determined that the assets held for sale criteria in accordance with ASC 360, Property, Plant and Equipment , were met for this business. As such, the assets and liabilities of this business were included in Assets held for sale and Liabilities held for sale, respectively, in the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2017. The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities that were classified as held for sale at December 31, 2017, are as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2017 Assets Current assets $ 39,152 Net property, plant and equipment 121,759 Goodwill 14,422 Other intangibles, net of amortization 3,632 Assets held for sale $ 178,965 Liabilities Current liabilities $ 1,938 Noncurrent liabilities 614 Liabilities held for sale $ 2,552 The results of operations of the business classified as held for sale is included in continuing operations within the consolidated statements of income. This business did not qualify for discontinued operations treatment because the Company’s management does not consider the sale as representing a strategic shift that had or will have a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results. 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 . Included in Income 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 oth er 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. During the second quarter of 2017, we received a final working capital settlement of $6.9 million related to the sale of this business. The sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business reflects the Company’s commitment to investing in the future growth of its high priority businesses, maintaining leverage flexibility and returning capital to shareholders. The Chemetall Surface Treatment business, a separate reportable segment, was acquired on January 12, 2015 as part of the acquisition of Rockwood. This sale qualified for discontinued operations treatment because it represented 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 accounted for this business as discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of income and excluded the business from segment results for the year ended December 31, 2016. 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 from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 Net sales $ 813,285 Cost of goods sold 416,934 Operating expenses, net (a) 268,402 Interest and financing expenses (b) 38,227 Other income, net (2,485 ) Gain on sale of discontinued operations (387,980 ) Income before income taxes 480,187 Income tax expense (c) 278,056 Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) $ 202,131 (a) Operating expenses, net for discontinued operations includes mark-to market actuarial losses of $8.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2016. (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. (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. Depreciation and amortization and capital expenditures from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 Depreciation and amortization $ 35,194 Capital expenditures $ 19,281 Other Divestitures On January 4, 2016, we completed the sale of our metal sulfides business to Treibacher Industrie AG for net proceeds of $137 million and recorded a gain of $11.5 million before income taxes in 2016 related to the sale of this business. Included in the transaction were sites in Vienna and Arnoldstein, Austria, and Tribotecc’s proprietary sulfide synthesis process. In addition, on February 1, 2016, we completed the sale of our minerals-based flame retardants and specialty chemicals business to Huber Engineered Materials, a division of J.M. Huber Corporation, for 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. 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, Austria. 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. These businesses did not qualify for discontinued operations treatment because the Company’s management did not consider their sale as representing a strategic shift that had or will have a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results.

Supplemental Cash Flow Informat

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 2017 2016 Cash paid during the year for: Income taxes (net of refunds of $21,459, $17,522 and $9,270 in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively) (a) $ 157,758 $ 320,222 $ 143,404 Interest (net of capitalization) $ 49,762 $ 61,243 $ 96,948 Supplemental non-cash disclosures related to investing activities: Capital expenditures included in Accounts payable $ 134,784 $ 89,188 $ 33,622 (a) Includes approximately $41 million of income taxes paid in 2018 from the gain on sale of the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture, and $257 million of income taxes paid in 2017 from the gain on sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business. Other, net within Cash flows from operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2018 included $28.4 million representing the reclassification of the current portion of the one-time transition tax resulting from the enactment of the TCJA, from Other noncurrent liabilities to Income taxes payable within current liabilities. Included in Other, net for the year ended December 31, 2017 is $394.9 million related to the noncurrent portion of the one-time transition tax resulting from the enactment of the TCJA. For additional information, see Note 20, “Income Taxes.” In addition, included in Other, net for the years ended December 31, 2018, 2017 and 2016 is $10.5 million , $11.1 million and $40.8 million , respectively, related to losses on fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 2017 2016 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations Numerator: Net income from continuing operations $ 739,139 $ 99,468 $ 478,638 Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (45,577 ) (44,618 ) (37,094 ) Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 693,562 $ 54,850 $ 441,544 Denominator: Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share 108,427 110,914 112,379 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations $ 6.40 $ 0.49 $ 3.93 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations Numerator: Net income from continuing operations $ 739,139 $ 99,468 $ 478,638 Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (45,577 ) (44,618 ) (37,094 ) Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 693,562 $ 54,850 $ 441,544 Denominator: Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share 108,427 110,914 112,379 Incremental shares under stock compensation plans 1,031 1,466 860 Weighted-average common shares for diluted earnings per share 109,458 112,380 113,239 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations $ 6.34 $ 0.49 $ 3.90 At December 31, 2018 , there were 123,730 common stock equivalents not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because their effect would have been anti-dilutive. Included in the calculation of basic earnings per share are unvested restricted stock awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends. At December 31, 2018 , there were 8,400 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, 2018 , 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 our existing Board authorized share repurchase program, during 2018, the Company entered into two separate accelerated share repurchase (“ASR”) agreements with financial institutions. Under each ASR agreement, the Company paid $250 million from available cash on hand. Under the terms of the first ASR agreement, which was completed on September 28, 2018, the Company received and retired a total of 2,680,704 shares, calculated based on the daily Rule 10b-18 volume-weighted average prices of the Company’s common stock over the term of the ASR agreement, less an agreed discount. Under the terms of the second ASR agreement, which was completed on December 7, 2018, the company received and retired a total of 2,581,950 shares, calculated based on the daily Rule 10b-18 weighted average prices of the Company’s common stock over the terms of the ASR agreement, less an agreed discount. The Company determined that each ASR agreement met the criteria to be accounted for as a forward contract indexed to its stock and was therefore treated as an equity instrument. In total, we received and retired 5,262,654 shares under these agreements, which reduced the Company’s weighted average shares outstanding for purposes of calculating basic and diluted earnings per share for the year ended December 31, 2018 . Under our existing Board authorized share repurchase program, the Company entered into an ASR agreement with a financial institution on March 1, 2017. Under the ASR agreement, in March 2017, the Company paid $250 million from available cash on hand and received and retired an initial delivery of 1,948,178 shares of our common stock. Under the terms of the ASR agreement, on June 16, 2017, the transaction was completed and we received and retired a final settlement of 392,905 shares, calculated based on the daily Rule 10b-18 volume-weighted average prices of the Company’s common stock over the term of the ASR agreement, less an agreed discount. The Company determined that the ASR agreement met the criteria to be accounted for as a forward contract indexed to its stock and was therefore treated as an equity instrument. In total, we received and retired 2,341,083 shares under the ASR agreement, which reduced the Company’s weighted average shares outstanding for purposes of calculating basic and diluted earnings per share for the year ended December 31, 2017. There were no shares of the Company’s common stock repurchased during the year ended December 31, 2016. As of December 31, 2018 , there were 7,396,263 remaining shares available for repurchase under the Company’s authorized share repurchase program.

Other Accounts Receivable

Other Accounts Receivable	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Receivables [Abstract]
Other Accounts Receivable	Other Accounts Receivable: Other accounts receivable consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Value added tax/consumption tax $ 40,480 $ 23,158 Other 11,579 14,779 Total $ 52,059 $ 37,937

Inventories

Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Inventories: The following table provides a breakdown of inventories at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Finished goods (a) $ 482,355 $ 404,239 Raw materials and work in process (b) 158,290 132,891 Stores, supplies and other 59,895 55,651 Total (c) $ 700,540 $ 592,781 (a) Increase primarily due to the build-up of inventory in our Lithium segment for a forecasted increase in sales in 2019. (b) Included $71.4 million and $59.6 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, of work in process related to lithium brine. (c) As of December 31, 2017, $24.7 million of Inventories were classified as Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheets. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. Approximately 10% and 17% of our inventories are valued using the last-in, first-out (“LIFO”) method at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. The portion of our domestic inventories stated on the LIFO basis amounted to $69.2 million and $99.6 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, which are below replacement cost by approximately $32.8 million and $33.1 million , respectively.

Other Current Assets

Other Current Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Other Assets [Abstract]
Other Current Assets	Other Current Assets: Other current assets consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Income tax receivables $ 40,116 $ 47,130 Prepaid expenses 43,172 86,348 Other 1,502 2,586 Total $ 84,790 $ 136,064

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): Useful Lives (Years) December 31, 2018 2017 Land — $ 123,518 $ 118,428 Land improvements 10 – 30 63,349 63,328 Buildings and improvements 10 – 45 251,980 245,482 Machinery and equipment (a) 2 – 45 2,780,478 2,627,667 Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs 7 – 60 696,033 675,832 Construction in progress — 883,705 393,598 Total (b) $ 4,799,063 $ 4,124,335 (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, 2017, $215.9 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, including depletion, amounted to $170.0 million , $169.5 million and $178.8 million during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Depreciation expense related to discontinued operations was $8.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2016. Interest capitalized on significant capital projects in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $19.3 million , $7.4 million and $6.8 million , respectively.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Joint ventures $ 486,032 $ 499,756 Nonmarketable securities 9,177 3,655 Marketable equity securities 33,513 30,653 Total $ 528,722 $ 534,064 Our ownership positions in significant unconsolidated investments are shown below: December 31, 2018 2017 2016 * Windfield Holdings Pty. Ltd. - a joint venture with Sichuan Tianqi Lithium Industries, Inc., that mines lithium ore and produces lithium concentrate 49 % 49 % 49 % * Nippon Aluminum Alkyls - a joint venture with Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. that produces aluminum alkyls 50 % 50 % 50 % * Nippon Ketjen Company Limited - a joint venture with Sumitomo Metal Mining Company Limited that produces refinery catalysts 50 % 50 % 50 % * Eurecat S.A. - a joint venture with Axens Group for refinery catalysts regeneration services 50 % 50 % 50 % * Fábrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A. - a joint venture with Petrobras Quimica S.A. - PETROQUISA that produces catalysts and includes catalysts research and product development activities 50 % 50 % 50 % Our investment in the significant unconsolidated joint ventures above amounted to $466.1 million and $479.1 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, and the amount included in Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income totaled $88.8 million , $86.8 million and $56.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Undistributed earnings attributable to our significant unconsolidated investments represented approximately $159.9 million and $127.5 million of our consolidated retained earnings at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , 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 the assets, liabilities and results of operations for our significant unconsolidated joint ventures presented herein (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Summary of Balance Sheet Information: Current assets $ 476,460 $ 503,043 Noncurrent assets 1,159,866 1,041,519 Total assets $ 1,636,326 $ 1,544,562 Current liabilities $ 191,971 $ 133,670 Noncurrent liabilities 422,769 405,662 Total liabilities $ 614,740 $ 539,332 Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Summary of Statements of Income Information: Net sales $ 829,590 $ 687,561 $ 590,980 Gross profit $ 456,518 $ 353,577 $ 267,241 Income before income taxes $ 332,632 $ 267,805 $ 189,016 Net income $ 225,791 $ 184,777 $ 126,872 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 $56.4 million , $38.1 million and $42.1 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. At December 31, 2018 and 2017 , the carrying amount of our investments in unconsolidated joint ventures differed from the amount of underlying equity in net assets by approximately $0.4 million and $13.8 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, 2018 and 2017 , $0.1 million and $0.4 million , respectively, remained to be amortized over the remaining useful lives of the assets with the balance of the difference primarily representing 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 $349.6 million and $355.2 million at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. 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 $8.1 million and $8.7 million at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , respectively. Our unconsolidated VIEs 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. As part of the original Windfield joint venture agreement, Tianqi Lithium Corporation (“Tianqi”) was granted an option to purchase from 20% to 30% of the equity interests in Rockwood Lithium GmbH, a wholly-owned German subsidiary of Albemarle, and its subsidiaries. In February 2017, Albemarle and Tianqi terminated the option agreement, and as a result, we will retain 100% of the ownership interest in Rockwood Lithium GmbH and its subsidiaries. Following the termination of the option agreement, the $13.1 million fair value of the option agreement originally recorded in Noncontrolling interests was reversed and recorded as an adjustment to Additional paid-in capital. 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. We maintain a Benefit Protection Trust (the “Trust”) that was created to provide a source of funds to assist in meeting the obligations of our Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (“EDCP”), subject to the claims of our creditors in the event of our insolvency. 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, 2018 and 2017 , these marketable securities amounted to $26.3 million and $25.5 million , respectively.

Other Assets

Other Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other Assets	Other Assets: Other assets consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Deferred income taxes (a) $ 17,029 $ 25,108 Assets related to unrecognized tax benefits (a) 12,984 14,601 Other (b) 50,122 34,455 Total $ 80,135 $ 74,164 (a) See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.” (b) As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, a $28.7 million reserve was recorded against a note receivable on one of our European entities no longer deemed probable of collection.

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangibles	Goodwill and Other Intangibles: The following table summarizes the changes in goodwill by reportable segment for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): Lithium Bromine Specialties Catalysts All Other Total Balance at December 31, 2016 (a) $ 1,326,980 $ 20,319 $ 186,147 $ 6,586 $ 1,540,032 Acquisitions (b) (26,151 ) — — — (26,151 ) Reclass to assets held for sale (c) — — (14,422 ) — (14,422 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 88,260 — 22,636 — 110,896 Balance at December 31, 2017 (a) 1,389,089 20,319 194,361 6,586 1,610,355 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (34,310 ) — (8,876 ) — (43,186 ) Balance at December 31, 2018 $ 1,354,779 $ 20,319 $ 185,485 $ 6,586 $ 1,567,169 (a) The December 31, 2016 and 2017 balances have been recast to reflect a change in segments. See Note 24, “Segment and Geographic Area Information,” for additional information. (b) Primarily represents final purchase price adjustments for the Jiangli New Materials acquisition recorded for the year ended December 31, 2017. See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (c) Represents Goodwill of the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. Other intangibles consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): Customer Lists and Relationships Trade Names and Trademarks (a) Patents and Technology Other Total Gross Asset Value Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 387,893 $ 16,514 $ 38,434 $ 18,844 $ 461,685 Acquisitions (b) 19,225 1,429 20,381 18,847 $ 59,882 Reclass to assets held for sale (c) — — — (4,228 ) (4,228 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 32,194 1,038 2,803 3,793 39,828 Balance at December 31, 2017 439,312 18,981 61,618 37,256 557,167 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (10,940 ) (528 ) (5,817 ) 6,452 (10,833 ) Balance at December 31, 2018 $ 428,372 $ 18,453 $ 55,801 $ 43,708 $ 546,334 Accumulated Amortization Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (49,165 ) $ (7,952 ) $ (31,683 ) $ (18,321 ) $ (107,121 ) Amortization (21,288 ) — (1,412 ) (2,379 ) (25,079 ) Reclass to assets held for sale (c) — — — 596 596 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (4,251 ) (343 ) (2,108 ) 2,642 (4,060 ) Balance at December 31, 2017 (74,704 ) (8,295 ) (35,203 ) (17,462 ) (135,664 ) Amortization (23,402 ) — (1,450 ) (3,127 ) (27,979 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 2,309 119 1,405 (381 ) 3,452 Balance at December 31, 2018 $ (95,797 ) $ (8,176 ) $ (35,248 ) $ (20,970 ) $ (160,191 ) Net Book Value at December 31, 2017 $ 364,608 $ 10,686 $ 26,415 $ 19,794 $ 421,503 Net Book Value at December 31, 2018 $ 332,575 $ 10,277 $ 20,553 $ 22,738 $ 386,143 (a) Includes only indefinite-lived intangible assets. (b) Represents final purchase price adjustments for the Jiangli New Materials acquisition and the acquisition of the remaining equity interest in Salmag. See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (c) Represents Other intangibles and related amortization of the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. Useful lives range from 13 – 25 years for customer lists and relationships; 8 – 20 years for patents and technology; and primarily 5 – 25 years for other. Amortization of other intangibles amounted to $28.0 million , $25.1 million and $19.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Included in amortization for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 is $19.7 million , $17.7 million and $15.9 million , respectively, of amortization using the pattern of economic benefit method. Amortization of other intangibles related to discontinued operations was $26.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. Total estimated amortization expense of other intangibles for the next five fiscal years is as follows (in thousands): Estimated Amortization Expense 2019 $ 27,219 2020 $ 24,878 2021 $ 24,600 2022 $ 24,006 2023 $ 23,395

Accrued Expenses

Accrued Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses	Accrued Expenses: Accrued expenses consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Employee benefits, payroll and related taxes $ 77,814 $ 93,393 Other (a) 179,509 174,943 Total $ 257,323 $ 268,336 (a) No individual component exceeds 5% of total current liabilities.

Long-Term Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	Long-Term Debt: Long-term debt consisted of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 1.875% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $2,841 at December 31, 2018 and $3,971 at December 31, 2017 444,155 463,575 4.15% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $2,884 at December 31, 2018 and $3,372 at December 31, 2017 422,116 421,628 4.50% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $589 at December 31, 2018 and $891 at December 31, 2017 174,626 174,325 5.45% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $4,004 at December 31, 2018 and $4,159 at December 31, 2017 345,996 345,841 Commercial paper notes 306,606 421,321 Variable-rate foreign bank loans 7,216 5,298 Other 4,495 5,384 Total long-term debt 1,705,210 1,837,372 Less amounts due within one year 307,294 422,012 Long-term debt, less current portion $ 1,397,916 $ 1,415,360 Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt as of December 31, 2018 are as follows (in millions): 2019 — $307.3 ; 2020 — $175.3 ; 2021 — $447.0 ; 2022 — $0.0 ; 2023 — $7.2 ; thereafter— $778.7 . 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. In the first quarter of 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 . As a result, Interest and financing expenses on the consolidated statements of income i ncludes a loss on early extinguishment of debt of $52.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, representing the tender premiums, fees, unamortized discounts and unamortized deferred financing costs from the redemption of these senior notes. On January 22, 2014, we entered into a pay fixed, receive variable rate forward starting interest rate swap, with a notional amount of $325.0 million , 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. 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 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 during the next twelve months is approximately $3.3 million . 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. During the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , gains (losses) of $25.8 million , ($41.8) million and $26.1 million (net of income taxes), respectively, were recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with the revaluation of these senior notes to our reporting currency. September 2015 Term Loan Agreement On September 14, 2015, we entered into a new $1.25 billion term loan agreement (the “September 2015 Term Loan Agreement”) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (the “Administrative Agent”) and certain other lenders. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company repaid the September 2015 Term Loan Agreement 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 On June 21, 2018, we entered into a revolving, unsecured credit agreement (“2018 Credit Agreement”) to replace our revolving, unsecured credit agreement dated as of February 7, 2014, as amended. The 2018 Credit Agreement currently provides for borrowings of up to $1.0 billion and matures on June 21, 2023. Borrowings under the 2018 Credit Agreement bear interest at variable rates based on an average London inter-bank offered rate (“LIBOR”) for deposits in the relevant currency plus an applicable margin which ranges from 0.910% to 1.500% , 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 1.125% as of December 31, 2018 . There were no borrowings outstanding under the 2018 Credit Agreement as of December 31, 2018 . Borrowings under the 2018 Credit Agreement are conditioned upon satisfaction of certain conditions precedent, including the absence of defaults. The Company is subject to one financial covenant, as well as customary affirmative and negative covenants. The financial covenant requires that the Company’s consolidated funded debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio (as such terms are defined in the 2018 Credit Agreement) to be less than or equal to 3.50 : 1.00 , subject to adjustments in accordance with the terms of the 2018 Credit Agreement relating to a consummation of an acquisition where the consideration includes cash proceeds from issuance of funded debt in excess of $500 million . The 2018 Credit Agreement also contains customary default provisions, including defaults for non-payment, breach of representations and warranties, insolvency, non-performance of covenants and cross-defaults to other material indebtedness. The occurrence of an event of default under the 2018 Credit Agreement could result in all loans and other obligations becoming immediately due and payable and the credit facility being terminated. 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 2018 Credit Agreement is available to repay the Commercial Paper Notes, if necessary. Aggregate borrowings outstanding under the 2018 Credit Agreement and the Commercial Paper Notes will not exceed the $1.0 billion current maximum amount available under the 2018 Credit Agreement. The Commercial Paper Notes will be sold at a discount from par, or alternatively, will be sold at par and bear interest at rates that will vary based upon market conditions at the time of issuance. The maturities of the Commercial Paper Notes will vary but may not exceed 397 days from the date of issue. The definitive documents relating to the commercial paper program contain customary representations, warranties, default and indemnification provisions. At December 31, 2018 , we had $306.6 million of Commercial Paper Notes outstanding bearing a weighted-average interest rate of approximately 2.91% and a weighted-average maturity of 38 days . During the year ended December 31, 2018, we repaid a net amount of $114.7 million of commercial paper notes using cash on hand. 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, 2018 . Outstanding borrowings under these agreements were $7.2 million and $5.3 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. The average interest rate on borrowings under these agreements during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was approximately 0.69% , 1.26% and 0.94% , respectively. At December 31, 2018 and 2017 , we had the ability and intent to refinance our borrowings under our other existing credit lines with borrowings under the 2018 Credit Agreement. Therefore, the amounts outstanding under those credit lines, if any, are classified as long-term debt at December 31, 2018 and 2017 . At December 31, 2018 , we had the ability to borrow $693.4 million under our commercial paper program and the 2018 Credit Agreement. We believe that as of December 31, 2018 , 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, 2018
Retirement Benefits [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. 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, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Change in benefit obligations: Benefit obligation at January 1 $ 685,963 $ 275,006 $ 665,688 $ 246,280 Service cost 1,043 3,919 985 2,547 Interest cost 26,804 5,144 28,614 5,128 Plan amendments — 233 — — Actuarial (gain) loss (36,844 ) (17,885 ) 30,539 2,783 Benefits paid (41,100 ) (9,974 ) (39,863 ) (9,524 ) Employee contributions — 182 — 215 Foreign exchange (gain) loss — (12,632 ) — 30,711 Settlements/curtailments — (3,628 ) — (3,065 ) Other — (62 ) — (69 ) Benefit obligation at December 31 $ 635,866 $ 240,303 $ 685,963 $ 275,006 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at January 1 $ 580,396 $ 79,478 $ 538,082 $ 68,875 Actual return on plan assets (28,457 ) (1,593 ) 80,613 6,260 Employer contributions 2,236 10,700 1,564 9,316 Benefits paid (41,100 ) (9,974 ) (39,863 ) (9,524 ) Employee contributions — 182 — 215 Foreign exchange (loss) gain — (4,519 ) — 7,470 Settlements/curtailments — (3,628 ) — (3,065 ) Other — (62 ) — (69 ) Fair value of plan assets at December 31 $ 513,075 $ 70,584 $ 580,396 $ 79,478 Funded status at December 31 $ (122,791 ) $ (169,719 ) $ (105,567 ) $ (195,528 ) December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets: Current liabilities (accrued expenses) $ (1,342 ) $ (5,772 ) $ (1,267 ) $ (5,217 ) Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits) (121,449 ) (163,947 ) (104,300 ) (190,311 ) Net pension liability $ (122,791 ) $ (169,719 ) $ (105,567 ) $ (195,528 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income: Prior service benefit $ — $ (409 ) $ (60 ) $ (269 ) Net amount recognized $ — $ (409 ) $ (60 ) $ (269 ) Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate 4.59 % 2.15 % 4.03 % 1.94 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.63 % — % 3.18 % The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans was $867.4 million and $949.0 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , 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, 2018 2017 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Change in benefit obligations: Benefit obligation at January 1 $ 56,647 $ 56,141 Service cost 117 121 Interest cost 2,168 2,340 Actuarial (gain) loss (5,661 ) 2,008 Benefits paid (2,881 ) (3,963 ) Benefit obligation at December 31 $ 50,390 $ 56,647 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at January 1 $ 834 $ 2,232 Actual return on plan assets (253 ) 104 Employer contributions 2,300 2,461 Benefits paid (2,881 ) (3,963 ) Fair value of plan assets at December 31 $ — $ 834 Funded status at December 31 $ (50,390 ) $ (55,813 ) December 31, 2018 2017 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets: Current liabilities (accrued expenses) $ (4,233 ) $ (3,810 ) Noncurrent liabilities (postretirement benefits) (46,157 ) (52,003 ) Net postretirement liability $ (50,390 ) $ (55,813 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income: Prior service benefit $ — $ 48 Net amount recognized $ — $ 48 Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate 4.55 % 3.99 % 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, 2018 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Service cost $ 1,043 $ 3,919 $ 985 $ 2,547 $ 1,028 $ 3,133 Interest cost 26,804 5,144 28,614 5,128 30,514 6,570 Expected return on assets (38,621 ) (4,204 ) (36,243 ) (4,441 ) (36,445 ) (4,027 ) Actuarial loss (gain) 30,234 (10,833 ) (13,910 ) 483 5,988 19,418 Amortization of prior service benefit 60 34 75 56 75 859 Total net pension benefits cost (credit) (a) $ 19,520 $ (5,940 ) $ (20,479 ) $ 3,773 $ 1,160 $ 25,953 Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 4.03 % 1.94 % 4.43 % 2.00 % 4.67 % 2.76 % Expected return on plan assets 6.89 % 5.52 % 6.89 % 6.16 % 6.89 % 6.66 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.18 % — % 3.18 % — % 3.16 % (a) For the year ended December 31, 2016, $10.8 million of net pension benefits credit is included in Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. Effective January 1, 2019 , the weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets for the U.S. and foreign defined benefit pension plans is 6.89% and 5.69% , respectively. The components of postretirement benefits (credit) cost from continuing operations are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Service cost $ 117 $ 121 $ 115 Interest cost 2,168 2,340 2,483 Expected return on assets (7 ) (110 ) (187 ) Actuarial (gain) loss (5,400 ) 2,014 1,275 Amortization of prior service benefit (48 ) (95 ) (95 ) Total net postretirement benefits (credit) cost $ (3,170 ) $ 4,270 $ 3,591 Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 3.99 % 4.35 % 4.59 % Expected return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % Rate of compensation increase 3.50 % 3.50 % 3.50 % As a result of the adoption of new accounting guidance effective January 1, 2018, on a retrospective basis, all components of net benefit cost (credit), other than service cost, are to be shown outside of operations on the consolidated statements of income. We recast these components of net benefit cost (credit), which resulted in an increase (reduction) of $3.7 million and $0.3 million in Cost of goods sold, respectively, and $12.4 million and ($26.7) million in Selling, general and administrative expenses, respectively, with an offsetting impact of $16.1 million and ($26.4) million in Other expenses, net, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016. There was no impact to Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation. The mark-to-market actuarial loss in 2018 is primarily attributable to a lower return on pension plan assets in 2018 than was expected, as a result of overall market and investment portfolio performance. The weighted-average actual return on our U.S. and foreign pension plan assets was (4.55)% versus an expected return of 6.73% . The mark-to-market actuarial loss in 2018 was partially offset by an increase in the weighted-average discount rate to 4.59% from 4.03% for our U.S. pension plans and to 2.15% from 1.94% for our foreign pension plans to reflect market conditions as of the December 31, 2018 measurement date. The mark-to-market actuarial gain in 2017 is primarily attributable to a higher return on pension plan assets in 2017 than was expected, as a result of overall market and investment portfolio performance. The weighted-average actual return on our U.S. and foreign pension plan assets was 14.31% versus an expected return of 6.73% . The mark-to-market actuarial gain in 2017 was partially offset by a decrease in the weighted-average discount rate to 4.03% from 4.43% for our U.S. pension plans and to 1.94% from 2.00% for our foreign pension plans to reflect market conditions as of the December 31, 2017 measurement date. The mark-to-market actuarial loss in 2016 is primarily attributable to a decrease in the weighted-average discount rate to 4.43% from 4.67% for our U.S. pension plans and to 2.00% form 2.76% for our foreign pension plans to reflect market conditions as of the December 31, 2016 measurement date. The mark-to-market actuarial loss in 2016 was partially offset by a higher return on pension plan assets in 2016 than was expected, as a result of overall market and investment portfolio performance. The weighted-average return on our U.S. and foreign pension plan assets was 8.11% versus an expected return of 6.85% . 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. 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, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 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) $ 113,355 $ 111,665 $ 1,690 $ — International Equity (b) 114,554 90,651 23,903 — Fixed Income (c) 254,437 219,124 35,313 — Absolute Return Measured at Net Asset Value (d) 71,987 — — — Cash 29,326 29,326 — — Total Pension Assets $ 583,659 $ 450,766 $ 60,906 $ — December 31, 2017 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) $ 163,160 $ 160,976 $ 2,184 $ — International Equity (b) 130,935 101,366 29,569 — Fixed Income (c) 269,365 231,506 37,859 — Absolute Return Measured at Net Asset Value (d) 96,414 — — — Total Pension Assets $ 659,874 $ 493,848 $ 69,612 $ — Postretirement Assets: Fixed Income (c) $ 834 $ — $ 834 $ — (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. The fair value amounts of $72.0 million and $96.4 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, are included in this table to permit reconciliation to the reconciliation of plan assets table above. The Company’s pension plan assets in the U.S. and U.K. represent approximately 97% 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, 2018 and 2017 , 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 43 % Fixed income 44 % Absolute return 13 % 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 $15.2 million , $13.3 million and $20.1 million during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, related to continuing and discontinued operations. We expect contributions to our domestic nonqualified and foreign qualified and nonqualified pension plans to approximate $12 million in 2019 . Also, we expect to pay approximately $4 million in premiums to our U.S. postretirement benefit plan in 2019 . 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 2019 $ 42.0 $ 12.9 $ 4.2 2020 $ 43.0 $ 9.4 $ 4.0 2021 $ 43.5 $ 9.7 $ 3.8 2022 $ 43.9 $ 9.2 $ 3.8 2023 $ 44.3 $ 12.1 $ 3.7 2024-2028 $ 220.6 $ 52.1 $ 17.4 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. (Credits) costs relating to our SERP were ($0.8) million , $2.6 million and $1.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. The projected benefit obligation for the SERP recognized in the consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2018 and 2017 was $21.9 million and $24.8 million , respectively. The benefit expenses and obligations of this SERP are included in the tables above. Benefits of $1.3 million are expected to be paid to SERP retirees in 2019 . 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, 2018 , 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 $11.8 million , $10.3 million , and $15.1 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, related to continuing and discontinued operations. 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 , $11.3 million and $12.7 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, related to continuing and discontinued operations. In 2006, we formalized a new plan in the Netherlands similar to a collective defined contribution plan. The collective defined contribution plan is supported by annuity contracts through an insurance company. The insurance company unconditionally undertakes the legal obligation to provide specific benefits to specific individuals in return for a fixed amount of premiums. Our obligation under this plan is limited to a variable calculated employer match for each participant plus an additional fixed amount of contributions to assist in covering estimated cost of living and salary increases (indexing) and administrative costs for the overall plan. We paid approximately $10.2 million , $9.9 million and $9.5 million in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, in annual premiums and related costs pertaining to this plan. Multiemployer Plan Certain current and former employees 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 due to financial inability to provide funding, 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, 2017, 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 normal contributions to this plan for continuing operations were approximately $1.5 million in 2018 and 2017 and $1.7 million in 2016 . Contributions for discontinued operations were approximately $1.3 million in 2016 . The Company’s contributions represented more than 5% of total contributions to the DN Pensionskasse in 2018 . Effective July 1, 2016, the DN Pensionskasse is subject to a financial improvement plan which expires on December 31, 2022, with the final contribution in the second quarter of 2023. This financial improvement plan calls for increased capital reserves to avoid future underfunding risk. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, we made contributions for our employees covered under this plan of approximately $2.3 million and $3.3 million , respectively, recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses, as a result of this financial improvement plan. The value of the additional funding required under the financial improvement plan each year is determined upon the completion of the annual financial statements and are payable in the second quarter of the following year. 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 that same year.

Other Noncurrent Liabilities

Other Noncurrent Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other Noncurrent Liabilities	Other Noncurrent Liabilities: Other noncurrent liabilities consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Transition tax on foreign earnings (a) $ 317,745 $ 394,878 Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions (b) 22,877 24,369 Executive deferred compensation plan obligation 26,292 25,494 Environmental liabilities (c) 40,376 37,518 Asset retirement obligations (c) 41,489 40,450 Tax indemnification liability (d) 45,347 42,707 Other (e) 32,816 33,758 Total $ 526,942 $ 599,174 (a) Noncurrent portion of one-time transition tax on foreign earnings. See Note 20, “Income Taxes,” for additional information. (b) See Note 20, “Income Taxes.” (c) See Note 17, “Commitments and Contingencies.” (d) Indemnification of certain income and non-income tax liabilities associated with the Chemetall Surface Treatment entities sold, as well as the proposed settlement of an ongoing audit of a previously disposed business in Germany. (e) No individual component exceeds 5% of total liabilities.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Balance, beginning of year $ 39,808 $ 34,919 $ 31,436 Expenditures (6,885 ) (1,818 ) (2,667 ) Accretion of discount 1,283 896 793 Additions and changes in estimates (a) 17,039 3,344 4,004 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (1,676 ) 2,467 1,353 Balance, end of year 49,569 39,808 34,919 Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses 9,193 2,290 2,324 Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities $ 40,376 $ 37,518 $ 32,595 (a) Increase in additions primarily related to the indemnification of the buyer of a formerly owned site. As defined in the agreement of sale, this indemnification has a set cutoff date in 2024, at which point we will no longer be required to provide financial coverage. Environmental remediation liabilities included discounted liabilities of $40.4 million and $28.1 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, discounted at rates with a weighted-average of 3.7% and 3.6% , respectively, with the undiscounted amount totaling $74.5 million and $68.2 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , 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, could be an additional $10 million to $35 million before income taxes, in excess of amounts already recorded. The variability of this range is primarily driven by possible environmental remediation activity at a formerly owned site where we indemnify the buyer through a set cutoff date in 2024. 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 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 Balance, beginning of year $ 40,450 $ 36,296 Additions and changes in estimates 740 3,859 Accretion of discount 1,500 1,532 Liabilities settled (786 ) (789 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (415 ) (448 ) Balance, end of year $ 41,489 $ 40,450 Our asset retirement obligations are recorded in Other noncurrent liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. Asset retirement obligations primarily relate to post-closure reclamation of brine wells and 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 2019 $ 25,608 2020 $ 17,918 2021 $ 12,478 2022 $ 10,794 2023 $ 10,109 Thereafter $ 87,085 Rental expense was approximately $37.6 million , $31.2 million , and $31.4 million for 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Rental expense related to discontinued operations was approximately $11.8 million for 2016 . Rental expense is shown net of sublease income which was minimal during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 . 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. As previously reported in 2018, following receipt of information regarding potential improper payments being made by third party sales representatives of our Refining Solutions business, within our Catalysts segment, we promptly retained outside counsel and forensic accountants to investigate potential violations of the Company’s Code of Conduct, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”), and other potentially applicable laws. Based on this internal investigation, we have voluntarily self-reported potential issues relating to the use of third party sales representatives in our Refining Solutions business, within our Catalysts segment, to the U.S. Department of Justice (“DOJ”), the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), and the Dutch Public Prosecutor (“DPP”), and are cooperating with the DOJ, the SEC, and DPP in their review of these matters. In connection with our internal investigation, we have implemented, and are continuing to implement, appropriate remedial measures. At this time, we are unable to predict the duration, scope, result or related costs associated with the investigations by the DOJ, the SEC, or DPP. We are unable to predict what, if any, action may be taken by the DOJ, the SEC, or DPP, or what penalties or remedial actions they may seek to impose. Any determination that our operations or activities are not in compliance with existing laws or regulations could result in the imposition of fines, penalties, disgorgement, equitable relief, or other losses. We do not believe, however, that any such fines, penalties, disgorgement, equitable relief or other losses would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or liquidity. During the year ended December 31, 2018, we recorded a charge of $16.2 million in Other expenses, net resulting from a jury rendering a verdict against Albemarle in a legal matter related to certain business concluded under a 2014 sales agreement for products that Albemarle no longer manufactures. In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2018, we recorded a charge of $10.8 million in Other expenses, net due to a settlement of a legal matter related to guarantees from a previously disposed business. Both matters have been resolved and paid during the year ended December 31, 2018. 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 of acquired businesses that were divested prior to the completion of the acquisition. 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 and other divested businesses. 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): 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Thereafter Letters of credit and other guarantees $ 45,342 $ 12,924 $ 1,883 $ 1,277 $ — $ 10,389 The outstanding letters of credit are primarily related to insurance claim payment guarantees. 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, 2018 . 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, 2018
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 63,259 , 82,204 and 141,661 stock options during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. There were no significant modifications made to any share-based grants during these periods. In May 2017, the Company adopted the Albemarle Corporation 2017 Incentive Plan (the “Incentive Plan”), which replaced the Albemarle Corporation 2008 Incentive Plan. The maximum number of shares available for issuance to participants under the Incentive Plan is 4,500,000 shares. The adoption of the Incentive Plan did not affect awards already granted under the Albemarle Corporation 2008 Incentive Plan. Under the Albemarle Corporation 2013 Stock Compensation and Deferral Election Plan for Non-Employee Directors (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, 2018 , there were 4,280,607 shares available for grant under the Incentive Plan and 388,179 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, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 amounted to $15.2 million , $19.4 million and $17.0 million , respectively, and is included in Cost of goods sold and Selling, general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statement s of income. Total related recognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 amounted to $2.6 million , $7.0 million and $6.2 million , respectively. As a result of the sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business in 2016, 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 from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2016 related to these awards. At December 31, 2018, $2.2 million and $1.2 million of this cash liability were included in Accrued liabilities and Other noncurrent liabilities, respectively. The following table summarizes information about the Company’s fixed-price stock options as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 : Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands) Outstanding at December 31, 2017 1,401,718 $ 56.10 5.1 $ 100,632 Granted 63,259 118.75 Exercised (94,031 ) 38.64 Forfeited (54,213 ) 75.72 Outstanding at December 31, 2018 1,316,733 $ 59.55 4.3 $ 26,438 Exercisable at December 31, 2018 911,011 $ 54.28 3.2 $ 20,872 The fair value of each option granted during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions: Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Dividend yield 1.44 % 1.56 % 1.84 % Volatility 32.48 % 32.70 % 33.08 % Average expected life (years) 6 6 6 Risk-free interest rate 3.06 % 2.51 % 1.96 % Fair value of options granted $ 37.35 $ 27.99 $ 16.06 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, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $6.2 million , $15.6 million and $7.9 million , respectively. The intrinsic value of a stock option is the amount by which the market value of the underlying stock exceeds the exercise price of the option. Total compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested stock options outstanding as of December 31, 2018 is approximately $3.0 million and is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average period of 1.5 years. Cash proceeds from stock options exercised and tax benefits related to stock options exercised were $3.6 million and $1.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 , 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, 2018 : Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested, beginning of period 433,003 $ 75.55 Granted 70,274 155.65 Vested (164,303 ) 61.72 Forfeited (21,537 ) 120.49 Nonvested, end of period 317,437 97.39 The weighted average grant date fair value of performance unit awards granted in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $10.9 million , $9.6 million and $10.9 million , respectively. The fair value of each performance unit awards was estimated on the date of grant using the Monte Carlo simulation model as these equity awards are tied to a service and market condition. The calculation used the following weighted-average assumptions: Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Volatility 29.92 % 30.34 % 27.69 % Risk-free interest rate 2.36 % 1.34 % 0.91 % The weighted average fair value of performance unit awards that vested during 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $20.0 million , $11.9 million and $4.6 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, 2018 is approximately $11.6 million , calculated based on current expectation of specific performance criteria, and is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average period of approximately 1.0 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, 2018 : Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested, beginning of period 223,338 $ 71.95 Granted 104,513 104.36 Vested (48,178 ) 66.93 Forfeited (22,155 ) 78.98 Nonvested, end of period 257,518 85.44 The weighted average grant date fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards granted in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $10.9 million , $8.2 million and $8.8 million , respectively. The weighted average fair value of restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards that vested in 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $4.9 million , $3.1 million and $3.2 million , respectively, based on the closing prices of our common stock on the dates of vesting. Total compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested, non-performance based restricted stock and restricted stock units as of December 31, 2018 is approximately $12.6 million and is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average period of 2.0 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, 2018
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, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Foreign Currency Translation (a) Pension and Post-Retirement Benefits (b) Net Investment Hedge Interest Rate Swap (c) Total 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 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 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 227,439 — (41,827 ) — 185,612 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss — (97 ) — 2,116 2,019 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 227,439 (97 ) (41,827 ) 2,116 187,631 Other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests (887 ) — — — (887 ) Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2017 $ (257,569 ) $ (21 ) $ 46,551 $ (14,629 ) $ (225,668 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (150,258 ) — 15,695 — (134,563 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (d) — (138 ) 10,091 (585 ) 9,368 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (150,258 ) (138 ) 25,786 (585 ) (125,195 ) Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 181 — — — 181 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2018 $ (407,646 ) $ (159 ) $ 72,337 $ (15,214 ) $ (350,682 ) (a) Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2016 is included in Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2016 and resulted from the release of cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments into earnings upon the sale of our Chemetall Surface Treatment business which closed on December 14, 2016. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (b) The pre-tax portion of amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 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,” for additional information. (c) The pre-tax portion of amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss is included in interest expense. (d) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss include a net benefit of $6.9 million , which was reclassified to Retained earnings for stranded tax effects caused by the TCJA. See “Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements,” included in Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” for additional information. The amount of income tax benefit (expense) allocated to each component of Other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 is provided in the following tables (in thousands): Foreign Currency Translation Pension and Postretirement Benefits Net Investment Hedge Interest Rate Swap 2018 Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax $ (150,262 ) $ (128 ) $ 20,424 $ 3,336 Income tax benefit (expense) 4 (10 ) 5,362 (3,921 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax $ (150,258 ) $ (138 ) $ 25,786 $ (585 ) 2017 Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax $ 228,508 $ (96 ) $ (65,958 ) $ 3,336 Income tax (expense) benefit (1,069 ) (1 ) 24,131 (1,220 ) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax $ 227,439 $ (97 ) $ (41,827 ) $ 2,116 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

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes: On December 22, 2017, the TCJA was signed into law in the U.S. The TCJA contains several key tax provisions including, among other things, the reduction of the corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018, the requirement of companies to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred, and the creation of new taxes on certain foreign sourced earnings such as GILTI. Under ASC 740, Income Taxes , the effect of changes in tax rates and laws are recognized in the period in which the new legislation is enacted. However, the SEC staff issued SAB 118, which allowed us to record provisional amounts during a measurement period ending December 22, 2018. In accordance with SAB 118, income tax effects of the TCJA could be refined as additional analysis was completed based on obtaining, preparing, or analyzing additional information about facts and circumstances that existed as of the enactment date that were not initially reported as provisional amounts. In addition, the provisional amounts could also be affected upon additional TCJA guidance issued during the measurement period. As of December 31, 2018, we have completed our accounting for the effects of enactment of the TCJA and adjustments made to the provisional amounts allowed under SAB 118 were identified and recorded. During the year ended December 31, 2018, we recorded income tax expense of $0.4 million related to the remeasurement of our deferred tax assets and liabilities for the reduction in the Federal statutory tax rate. We also recognized an income tax benefit of $42.3 million for the refinement of the tax liability calculation related to the one-time transition tax. Additionally, during the year ended December 31, 2018 we recognized income tax expense of $2.1 million related to excess executive employee remuneration for awards determined not to be grandfathered consistent with Notice 2018-68. The TCJA provides for a territorial tax system, beginning in 2018, which includes tax imposed on GILTI. The Company has elected to account for GILTI tax in the period in which it is incurred. The GILTI provisions require the Company to include in its U.S. income tax return foreign subsidiary earnings in excess of an allowable return on the foreign subsidiary’s tangible assets. As of December 31, 2018, we recorded income tax expense of $6.4 million for GILTI, as well as $4.1 million related to excess employee remuneration that became effective in 2018 under the TCJA. As additional regulations or guidance in relation to TCJA continues to be issued, the Company will analyze and record the necessary impacts in the quarter in which guidance is received. 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, 2018 2017 2016 Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments: Domestic $ 223,702 $ (8,293 ) $ 49,630 Foreign 570,999 455,091 465,634 Total $ 794,701 $ 446,798 $ 515,264 Current income tax expense (benefit): Federal $ (2,712 ) $ 394,747 $ 7,717 State 6,793 323 1,407 Foreign 91,581 78,688 63,957 Total $ 95,662 $ 473,758 $ 73,081 Deferred income tax (benefit) expense: Federal $ 15,573 $ (58,640 ) $ 12,230 State 1,614 (2,288 ) (1,715 ) Foreign 31,977 18,987 12,667 Total $ 49,164 $ (41,941 ) $ 23,182 Total income tax expense $ 144,826 $ 431,817 $ 96,263 The decrease in the current income tax expense is primarily related to the tax impact of the one-time transition tax imposed by the TCJA in 2017. The increase in the deferred tax expense in 2018 is primarily related to the tax impact associated with the remeasurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities under the recently enacted tax legislation from a statutory rate of 35% to 21% recorded in 2017. The reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate to the effective income tax rate is as follows: % of Income Before Income Taxes 2018 2017 2016 Federal statutory rate 21.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % State taxes, net of federal tax benefit 0.9 (0.5 ) (0.1 ) Change in valuation allowance (a) 0.7 (1.4 ) 3.7 Impact of foreign earnings, net (b) (0.3 ) (13.5 ) (19.3 ) Global intangible low tax inclusion 0.8 — — Change in U.S. federal statutory rate (c) 0.1 (14.0 ) — Transition tax on deferred foreign earnings (d) (5.3 ) 96.1 — Subpart F income 0.9 2.0 0.2 Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries — (2.2 ) 0.1 Stock-based compensation (0.7 ) (1.9 ) — Depletion (0.6 ) (1.4 ) (1.0 ) Revaluation of unrecognized tax benefits/reserve requirements — (0.7 ) (0.4 ) Domestic manufacturing tax deduction — — (0.9 ) Other items, net 0.7 (0.9 ) 1.4 Effective income tax rate 18.2 % 96.6 % 18.7 % (a) The year ended December 31, 2018 includes an $8.2 million expense due to the establishment of a valuation allowance due to a foreign restructuring plan and a $1.5 million benefit due to the release of a foreign valuation allowance due to changes in expected profitability. 2017 includes a $10.9 million benefit from the release of valuation allowances due to a foreign restructuring plan. (b) 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 resulted in a rate benefit of 3.3% , 8.9% , and 7.3% for 2018 , 2017 , and 2016 , respectively. (c) At December 31, 2017 we have made a reasonable estimate of the tax impact of the U.S. enacted tax law on our business and our consolidated financial statements and have recorded a provisional tax benefit of $62.3 million related to the remeasurement of our deferred tax assets and liabilities for the reduction in the Federal statutory tax rate from 35% to 21% . In 2018, the updates to our calculation of the remeasurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities resulted in income tax expense of $0.4 million . (d) At December 31, 2017 we made a reasonable estimate of the tax impact of the U.S. enacted tax law on our business and our consolidated financial statements and recognized a provisional tax expense of $429.2 million for the one-time transition tax. During 2018, the impact of the refined one-time transition tax calculation was an income tax benefit of $42.3 million . Deferred income tax assets and liabilities recorded on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Deferred tax assets: Accrued employee benefits $ 18,462 $ 21,463 Operating loss carryovers (a) 1,210,377 459,644 Pensions 61,308 64,799 Tax credit carryovers 1,270 11,634 Other 35,895 44,714 Gross deferred tax assets 1,327,312 602,254 Valuation allowance (a) (1,213,750 ) (458,288 ) Deferred tax assets 113,562 143,966 Deferred tax liabilities: Depreciation (337,503 ) (334,162 ) Intangibles (88,871 ) (113,792 ) Hedge of net investment of foreign subsidiary (21,854 ) (17,028 ) Other (31,287 ) (24,265 ) Deferred tax liabilities (479,515 ) (489,247 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (365,953 ) $ (345,281 ) Classification in the consolidated balance sheets: Noncurrent deferred tax assets $ 17,029 $ 25,108 Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities (382,982 ) (370,389 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (365,953 ) $ (345,281 ) (a) During 2018, the Company recognized intercompany losses at a foreign entity related to international restructuring resulting in an increase to the deferred tax asset for net operating losses and an associated and equal valuation allowance of $749.8 million . Changes in the balance of our deferred tax asset valuation allowance are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Balance at January 1 $ (458,288 ) $ (69,900 ) $ (84,137 ) Additions (766,012 ) (408,252 ) (20,568 ) Deductions 10,550 19,864 34,805 Balance at December 31 $ (1,213,750 ) $ (458,288 ) $ (69,900 ) At December 31, 2018 , we had approximately $1.3 million of domestic credits available to offset future payments of income taxes, expiring in varying amounts between 2019 and 2027 . We have established valuation allowances for $0.3 million of those domestic credits since we believe that it is more likely than not that the related deferred tax assets will not be realized. We believe that sufficient taxable income will be generated during the carryover period in order to utilize the other remaining credit carryovers. At December 31, 2018 , we have on a pre-tax basis, domestic state net operating losses of $152.7 million , expiring between 2019 and 2038, which have pre-tax valuation allowances of $58.3 million established. In addition, we have on a pre-tax basis $4.64 billion of foreign net operating losses, of which a majority have an indefinite life, which have pre-tax valuation allowances for $4.61 billion 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 of $9.9 million and $55.2 million for other state and foreign deferred tax assets, respectively, unrelated 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. As of December 31, 2018, we have not recorded taxes on approximately $505.6 million of cumulative undistributed earnings of our non-U.S. subsidiaries and joint ventures. We generally do not provide for taxes related to our undistributed earnings because such earnings either would not be taxable when remitted or they are considered to be indefinitely reinvested. 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 due to the complexity and variety of assumptions necessary based on the manner in which the undistributed earnings would be repatriated. Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions were $22.9 million and $24.4 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, inclusive of interest and penalties of $3.2 million and $2.9 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, and are reported in Other noncurrent liabilities as provided in Note 16, “Other Noncurrent Liabilities.” These liabilities at December 31, 2018 and 2017 were reduced by $13.0 million and $14.6 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 $6.7 million and $6.9 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, if recognized and released, would favorably affect earnings. The liabilities related to uncertain tax positions, exclusive of interest, were $19.7 million and $21.4 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. The following is a reconciliation of our total gross liability related to uncertain tax positions for 2018 , 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Balance at January 1 $ 21,438 $ 25,384 $ 95,715 Divestitures (a) — — (55,881 ) Additions for tax positions related to prior years 874 — 548 Reductions for tax positions related to prior years — (1,933 ) (1,253 ) Additions for tax positions related to current year 1,091 1,132 1,271 Lapses in statutes of limitations/settlements (3,578 ) (4,198 ) (12,591 ) Foreign currency translation adjustment (83 ) 1,053 (2,425 ) Balance at December 31 $ 19,742 $ 21,438 $ 25,384 (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 2011. Due to the statute of limitations, we also are no longer subject to U.S. state income tax audits prior to 2011. With respect to jurisdictions outside the U.S., several audits are in process. We have audits ongoing for the years 2006 through 2017 related to Germany, Taiwan, Italy, India, Belgium, and Chile, some of which are for 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 $4.4 million as a result of closure of tax statutes.

Fair Value of Financial Instrum

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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 are estimated using Level 1 inputs and account for 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, 2018 2017 Recorded Amount Fair Value Recorded Amount Fair Value (In thousands) Long-term debt $ 1,712,003 $ 1,731,271 $ 1,845,309 $ 1,949,638 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, 2018 and 2017 , we had outstanding foreign currency forward contracts with notional values totaling $626.5 million and $357.4 million , respectively, hedging our exposure to various currencies including the Euro and Chinese Renminbi. Our foreign currency forward contracts outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017 have not been designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging . The following table summarizes the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts included in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Foreign currency forward contracts - Other accounts receivable $ 431 $ — Foreign currency forward contracts - Accrued expenses $ — $ 4,954 Gains and losses on foreign currency forward contracts are recognized currently in Other 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, which are also reported in Other expenses, net. The following table summarizes these net (losses) gains recognized in our consolidated statements of income during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Foreign currency forward contracts (losses) gains $ (19,851 ) $ 4,588 $ 16,095 In addition, for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , we recorded losses (gains) of $19.9 million , ($4.6) million and ($16.1) million , respectively, related to the change in the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts, and net cash (settlements) receipts of ($25.2) million , $9.4 million and $16.0 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, 2018
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. 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, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 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) $ 26,292 $ 26,292 $ — $ — Private equity securities (b) $ 26 $ 26 $ — $ — Private equity securities measured at net asset value (b)(c) $ 7,195 $ — $ — $ — Foreign currency forward contracts (d) $ 431 $ — $ 431 $ — Liabilities: Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 26,292 $ 26,292 $ — $ — December 31, 2017 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) $ 25,494 $ 25,494 $ — $ — Private equity securities (b) $ 38 $ 38 $ — $ — Private equity securities measured at net asset value (b)(c) $ 5,121 $ — $ — $ — Liabilities: Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 25,494 $ 25,494 $ — $ — Foreign currency forward contracts (d) $ 4,954 $ — $ 4,954 $ — (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 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. The fair value amounts of $7.2 million and $5.1 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, are included in this table to permit reconciliation to the marketable equity securities presented in Note 10, “Investments.” (d) As a result of our global operating and financing activities, we are exposed to market risks from changes in foreign currency exchange rates, which may adversely affect our operating results and financial position. When deemed appropriate, we minimize our risks from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations through the use of foreign currency forward contracts. Unless otherwise noted, these derivative financial instruments are not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging . The foreign currency forward contracts are valued using broker quotations or market transactions in either the listed or over-the-counter markets. As such, these derivative instruments are classified within Level 2.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions: Our consolidated statements of income include sales to and purchases from unconsolidated affiliates in the ordinary course of business as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Sales to unconsolidated affiliates $ 35,094 $ 29,514 $ 29,651 Purchases from unconsolidated affiliates (a) $ 256,701 $ 209,266 $ 130,287 (a) Purchases from unconsolidated affiliates primarily relate to purchases from our Windfield joint venture. Our consolidated balance sheets include accounts receivable due from and payable to unconsolidated affiliates in the ordinary course of business as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Receivables from related parties (a) $ 14,348 $ 2,406 Payables to related parties $ 68,357 $ 55,801 (a) Increase in receivables from related parties balance due to timing of payments in the normal course of business from one of our Catalysts joint ventures.

Segment and Geographic Area Inf

Segment and Geographic Area Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment and Geographic Area Information	Segment and Geographic Area Information: In the first quarter of 2018, the PCS product category merged with our former Refining Solutions reportable segment to form a global business focused on catalysts. As a result, our three reportable segments include: (1) Lithium; (2) Bromine Specialties; and (3) Catalysts. On June 17, 2016, the Company signed a definitive agreement to sell its Chemetall Surface Treatment business, a separate reportable segment, to BASF SE. This business was classified as discontinued operations and its results are excluded from segment results for all periods presented. 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. This business structure aligns with the markets and customers we serve through each of the segments. This 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 2017 and 2016 have been recast to reflect the change in segments noted above. The “All Other” category includes only the fine chemistry services business that does not fit into any of our core businesses. The Corporate category is not considered to be a segment and includes corporate-related items not allocated to the operating 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 adjusted EBITDA (as defined below) to assess the ongoing performance of the Company’s business segments and to allocate resources. The Company defines adjusted EBITDA as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, as adjusted on a consistent basis for certain non-recurring or unusual items in a balanced manner and on a segment basis. These non-recurring or unusual items may include 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. 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 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, 2018 2017 2016 (In thousands) Net sales: Lithium $ 1,228,171 $ 1,018,885 $ 668,852 Bromine Specialties 917,880 855,143 792,425 Catalysts 1,101,554 1,067,572 1,031,501 All Other 127,186 128,914 180,988 Corporate 159 1,462 3,437 Total net sales $ 3,374,950 $ 3,071,976 $ 2,677,203 Adjusted EBITDA: Lithium $ 530,773 $ 446,652 $ 285,714 Bromine Specialties 288,116 258,901 226,926 Catalysts 284,307 283,883 316,609 All Other 14,091 13,878 14,772 Corporate (110,623 ) (117,834 ) (85,804 ) Total adjusted EBITDA $ 1,006,664 $ 885,480 $ 758,217 See below for a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA, the non-GAAP financial measure, from Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP (in thousands): Lithium Bromine Specialties Catalysts Reportable Segments Total All Other Corporate Consolidated Total 2018 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 428,212 $ 246,509 $ 445,604 $ 1,120,325 $ 6,018 $ (432,781 ) $ 693,562 Depreciation and amortization 95,193 41,607 49,131 185,931 8,073 6,694 200,698 Restructuring and other (a) — — — — — 3,838 3,838 Gain on sale of business (b) — — (210,428 ) (210,428 ) — — (210,428 ) Acquisition and integration related costs (c) — — — — — 19,377 19,377 Interest and financing expenses — — — — — 52,405 52,405 Income tax expense — — — — — 144,826 144,826 Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — 5,285 5,285 Legal accrual (d) — — — — — 27,027 27,027 Environmental accrual (e) — — — — — 15,597 15,597 Albemarle Foundation contribution (f) — — — — — 15,000 15,000 Indemnification adjustments (g) — — — — — 25,240 25,240 Other (h) 7,368 — — 7,368 — 6,869 14,237 Adjusted EBITDA $ 530,773 $ 288,116 $ 284,307 $ 1,103,196 $ 14,091 $ (110,623 ) $ 1,006,664 2017 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 342,992 $ 218,839 $ 230,665 $ 792,496 $ 5,521 $ (743,167 ) $ 54,850 Depreciation and amortization 87,879 40,062 54,468 182,409 8,357 6,162 196,928 Utilization of inventory markup (i) 23,095 — — 23,095 — — 23,095 Restructuring and other (j) — — — — — 17,056 17,056 Gain on acquisition (k) (6,221 ) — — (6,221 ) — — (6,221 ) Acquisition and integration related costs (c) — — — — — 33,954 33,954 Interest and financing expenses (l) — — — — — 115,350 115,350 Income tax expense — — — — — 431,817 431,817 Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — (16,125 ) (16,125 ) Note receivable reserve (m) — — — — — 28,730 28,730 Other (n) (1,093 ) — (1,250 ) (2,343 ) — 8,389 6,046 Adjusted EBITDA $ 446,652 $ 258,901 $ 283,883 $ 989,436 $ 13,878 $ (117,834 ) $ 885,480 2016 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 198,852 $ 187,364 $ 265,416 $ 651,632 $ 131,301 $ (139,258 ) $ 643,675 Depreciation and amortization 86,862 39,562 51,193 177,617 7,302 6,056 190,975 (Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net (b) — — — — (123,831 ) 1,533 (122,298 ) Acquisition and integration related costs (c) — — — — — 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 (o) — — — — — 3,579 3,579 Adjusted EBITDA $ 285,714 $ 226,926 $ 316,609 $ 829,249 $ 14,772 $ (85,804 ) $ 758,217 (a) Expected severance payments as part of a business reorganization plan, $0.1 million recorded in Cost of goods sold and $3.7 million recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses. These severance payments have been made during the year ended December 31, 2018. (b) See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (c) See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (d) Included in Other expenses, net. See Note 17, “Commitments and Contingencies,” for additional information. (e) Increase in environmental reserve to indemnify the buyer of a formerly owned site recorded in Other expenses, net. As defined in the agreement of sale, this indemnification has a set cutoff date in 2024, at which point we will no longer be required to provide financial coverage. (f) Including in Selling, general and administrative expenses is a charitable contribution, using a portion of the proceeds received from the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture, to the Albemarle Foundation, a non-profit organization that sponsors grants, health and social projects, educational initiatives, disaster relief, matching gift programs, scholarships and other charitable initiatives in locations where our employees live and operate. This contribution is in addition to the normal annual contribution made to the Albemarle Foundation by the Company, and is significant in size and nature in that it is intended to provide more long-term benefits in the communities where we live and operate. (g) Included in Other expenses, net is $19.7 million related to the proposed settlement of an ongoing audit of a previously disposed business in Germany, and $5.5 million related to the revision of indemnifications previously recorded from disposed businesses. (h) Included amounts for the year ended December 31, 2018 recorded in: • Cost of goods sold - $4.9 million for the write-off of fixed assets related to a major capacity expansion in our Jordanian joint venture and $8.8 million related to non-routine labor and compensation related costs in Chile that are outside normal compensation arrangements. • Selling, general and administrative expenses - $2.3 million of shortfall contributions for our multiemployer plan financial improvement plan and a $1.2 million contribution, using a portion of the proceeds received from the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture, to schools in the state of Louisiana for qualified tuition purposes. This contribution is significant in size and is intended to provide long-term benefits for families in the Louisiana community. This was partially offset by a $1.5 million gain related to a refund from Chilean authorities due to an overpayment made in a prior year. • Other expenses, net - $1.5 million gain related to the reversal of previously recorded liabilities of disposed businesses. (i) In connection with the acquisition of Jiangli New Materials, the Company valued inventory purchased from Jiangli New Materials at fair value, which resulted in a markup of the underlying net book value of the inventory totaling approximately $23.1 million . The utilization of this inventory markup was included in Costs of goods sold during the year ended December 31, 2017, the estimated remaining selling period. (j) During 2017, we initiated action to reduce costs in each of our reportable segments at several locations, primarily at our Lithium sites in Germany. Based on the restructuring plans, we have recorded expenses of $2.9 million in Cost of goods sold, $8.4 million in Selling, general and administrative expenses, and $5.7 million in Research and development expenses, primarily related to expected severance payments. The unpaid balance is recorded in Accrued expenses at December 31, 2018, with the expectation that the remaining balance will be paid by the end of 2019. (k) Gain recorded in Other expenses, net related to the acquisition of the remaining 50% interest in Salmag. See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (l) Included in Interest and financing expenses is a loss on early extinguishment of debt of $52.8 million . See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt,” for additional information. (m) Reserve recorded in Other expenses, net against a note receivable on one of our European entities no longer deemed probable of collection. (n) Included amounts for the year ended December 31, 2017 recorded in: • Cost of goods sold - $1.3 million reversal of deferred income related to an abandoned project at an unconsolidated investment. • Selling, general and administrative expenses - $3.3 million of shortfall contributions for our multiemployer plan financial improvement plan, partially offset by $1.0 million related to a reversal of an accrual recorded as part of purchase accounting from a previous acquisition. • Other expenses, net - $3.2 million of asset retirement obligation charges related to the revision of an estimate at a site formerly owned by Albemarle, losses of $8.7 million related to adjustments of settlements and indemnifications of previously disposed businesses, the revision of tax indemnification expenses of $3.7 million primarily related to the filing of tax returns and a competent authority agreement for a previously disposed business and $1.0 million related to the settlement of a legal claim. This is partially offset by gains of $10.6 million and $1.1 million related to the reversal of liabilities recorded as part of purchase accounting from a previous acquisition and the previous disposal of a property, respectively. (o) Included amounts for the year ended December 31, 2016 recorded in: • Selling, general and administrative expenses - $0.9 million related to the net loss on the sales of properties. • Research and development expenses - $1.4 million related to the write-off of fixed assets in China. • Other expenses, net - $2.4 million related to environmental charges related to a site formerly owned by Albemarle, partially offset by a gain related to a previously disposed of site in China of $1.1 million . December 31, 2018 2017 2016 (In thousands) Identifiable assets: Lithium (a) $ 4,605,070 $ 3,979,615 $ 3,499,302 Bromine Specialties 753,157 745,007 724,218 Catalysts 1,134,975 1,332,599 1,224,504 All Other 128,185 126,486 130,595 Corporate (a)(b) 960,287 1,567,065 2,582,588 Total identifiable assets $ 7,581,674 $ 7,750,772 $ 8,161,207 Goodwill: Lithium $ 1,354,779 $ 1,389,089 $ 1,326,980 Bromine Specialties 20,319 20,319 20,319 Catalysts 185,485 194,361 186,147 All Other 6,586 6,586 6,586 Total goodwill $ 1,567,169 $ 1,610,355 $ 1,540,032 (a) The identifiable assets at December 31, 2017, have been revised to correct an error in the previously reported amounts, which understated the Lithium segment and overstated the Corporate category by $238.5 million . There is no impact to the financial statements or total identifiable assets at December 31, 2017. (b) Decrease in Corporate identifiable assets at December 31, 2018 primarily due to the net use of cash and cash equivalents for items such as capital expenditures, share repurchases and commercial paper repayments. 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. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” and Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” for additional details about these transactions. Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 (In thousands) Depreciation and amortization: Lithium $ 95,193 $ 87,879 $ 86,862 Bromine Specialties 41,607 40,062 39,562 Catalysts 49,131 54,468 51,193 Discontinued Operations — — 35,194 All Other 8,073 8,357 7,302 Corporate 6,694 6,162 6,056 Total depreciation and amortization $ 200,698 $ 196,928 $ 226,169 Capital expenditures: Lithium $ 500,849 $ 192,318 $ 72,038 Bromine Specialties 79,357 46,427 46,414 Catalysts 52,019 46,808 47,475 Discontinued Operations — — 19,281 All Other 5,232 3,657 9,251 Corporate 62,534 28,493 2,195 Total capital expenditures $ 699,991 $ 317,703 $ 196,654 Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 (In thousands) Net Sales (a) : United States $ 887,416 $ 840,589 $ 797,267 Foreign (b) 2,487,534 2,231,387 1,879,936 Total $ 3,374,950 $ 3,071,976 $ 2,677,203 (a) Net sales are attributed to countries based upon shipments to final destination. (b) In 2018, net sales to Korea, China and Japan represented 13% , 12% , and 10% , respectively, of total net sales. In 2017 and 2016, net sales to China represented 15% and 13% , respectively, of total net sales. No net sales in any other foreign country exceed 10% of total net sales. As of December 31, 2018 2017 2016 (In thousands) Long-Lived Assets (a) : United States $ 929,291 $ 833,002 $ 850,689 Chile 1,406,478 1,069,859 922,878 Australia 407,141 364,624 288,553 Jordan 254,800 242,626 227,222 Netherlands 166,853 171,980 145,917 Germany 101,168 115,305 117,027 China 91,160 50,532 31,564 France 43,698 40,852 39,470 Brazil 40,464 47,255 46,380 Korea (b) 111 495 65,963 Other foreign countries 65,826 60,131 57,936 Total $ 3,506,990 $ 2,996,661 $ 2,793,599 (a) Long-lived assets are comprised of the Company’s Property, plant and equipment and Investments. (b) The reduction as of December 31, 2017, relates to the assets of the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture that are included in Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheet.

Quarterly Financial Summary (Un

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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) 2018 Net sales $ 821,629 $ 853,874 $ 777,748 $ 921,699 Gross profit $ 304,979 $ 311,356 $ 280,537 $ 320,384 (Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net (a) $ — $ (218,705 ) $ — $ 8,277 Net income $ 138,925 $ 310,686 $ 143,479 $ 146,049 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (7,165 ) (8,225 ) (13,734 ) (16,453 ) Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 131,760 $ 302,461 $ 129,745 $ 129,596 Basic earnings per share $ 1.19 $ 2.76 $ 1.21 $ 1.22 Shares used to compute basic earnings per share 110,681 109,671 107,315 106,042 Diluted earnings per share $ 1.18 $ 2.73 $ 1.20 $ 1.21 Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share 111,867 110,659 108,302 107,005 First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2017 Net sales $ 722,063 $ 737,258 $ 754,866 $ 857,789 Gross profit $ 254,956 $ 271,960 $ 275,657 $ 303,703 Net income (loss) $ 62,657 $ 113,689 $ 130,193 $ (207,071 ) Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (11,444 ) (10,356 ) (11,523 ) (11,295 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 51,213 $ 103,333 $ 118,670 $ (218,366 ) Basic earnings (loss) per share $ 0.46 $ 0.93 $ 1.07 $ (1.98 ) Shares used to compute basic earnings per share 111,986 110,686 110,476 110,510 Diluted earnings (loss) per share $ 0.45 $ 0.92 $ 1.06 $ (1.95 ) Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share 113,289 112,105 111,975 112,152 (a) Represents the gain (loss) on the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. 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, 2018, actuarial losses were recognized as follows: fourth quarter— $14.0 million ( $10.6 million after income taxes) as a result of the annual remeasurement process. During the year ended December 31, 2017, actuarial gains were recognized as follows: fourth quarter— $11.4 million ( $7.3 million after income taxes) as a result of the annual remeasurement process.

Summary of Significant Accoun_2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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.
Discontinued Operations	Discontinued Operations 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, 2017 related to the polyolefin catalysts and components business 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 the year ended December 31, 2016. 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. Income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2017 includes expense of $5.1 million due to an adjustment in the Company’s deferred tax liabilities for basis differences in Chilean fixed assets related to the year ended December 31, 2016. The Company does not believe this adjustment is material to the consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2017 or 2016. In addition, for the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company began reporting its acquisition and integration related costs and restructuring and other costs in Cost of goods sold, Selling, general and administrative expenses and Research and development expenses. See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” and Note 24, “Segment and Geographic Area Information,” for further details.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Effective January 1, 2018, we adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers” and all related amendments using the modified retrospective method. There was no material impact to our results of operations or financial position upon adoption, and no adjustment was made to Retained earnings in our consolidated balance sheets because such adjustment was determined to be immaterial. In addition, new presentation requirements, including separate disclosure of net sales from sources other than customers on our consolidated statements of income and separate disclosures of contract assets or liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets, generally did not have a material impact. However, business circumstances, including the nature of customer contracts, can change and as such, we have expanded processes and controls to recognize such changes, and as necessary, consider whether any of these currently immaterial items might differ in the future. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for transferring goods or providing services, and is recognized when performance obligations are satisfied under the terms of contracts with our customers. A performance obligation is deemed to be satisfied when control of the product or service is transferred to our customer. The transaction price of a contract, or the amount we expect to receive upon satisfaction of all performance obligations, is determined by reference to the contract’s terms and includes adjustments, if applicable, for any variable consideration, such as customer rebates, noncash consideration or consideration payable to the customer, although these adjustments are generally not material. Where a contract contains more than one distinct performance obligation, the transaction price is allocated to each performance obligation based on the standalone selling price of each performance obligation, although these situations do not occur frequently and are generally not built into our contracts. Any unsatisfied performance obligations are not material. Standalone selling prices are based on prices we charge to our customers, which in some cases is based on established market prices. Sales and other similar taxes collected from customers on behalf of third parties are excluded from revenue. Our payment terms are generally between 30 to 90 days, however, they vary by market factors, such as customer size, creditworthiness, geography and competitive environment. All of our revenue is derived from contracts with customers, and almost all of our contracts with customers contain one performance obligation for the transfer of goods where such performance obligation is satisfied at a point in time. Control of a product is deemed to be transferred to the customer upon shipment or delivery. Significant portions of our sales are sold free on board shipping point or on an equivalent basis, while delivery terms of 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, while the timing between shipment and delivery generally ranges between 1 and 45 days. Costs for shipping and handling activities, whether performed before or after the customer obtains control of the goods, are accounted for as fulfillment costs. The Company currently utilizes the following practical expedients, as permitted by Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers : • All sales and other pass-through taxes are excluded from contract value; • In utilizing the modified retrospective transition method, no adjustment was necessary for contracts that did not cross over the reporting year; • We will not consider the possibility of a contract having a significant financing component (which would effectively attribute a portion of the sales price to interest income) unless, if at contract inception, the expected payment terms (from time of delivery or other relevant criterion) are more than one year; • If our right to customer payment is directly related to the value of our completed performance, we recognize revenue consistent with the invoicing right; and • We expense as incurred all costs of obtaining a contract incremental to any costs/compensation attributable to individual product sales/shipments for contracts where the amortization period for such costs would otherwise be one year or less. Certain products we produce are made to our customer’s specifications where such products have limited alternative use or would need significant rework costs in order to be sold to another customer. In management’s judgment, control of these arrangements is transferred to the customer at a point in time (upon shipment or delivery) and not over the time they are produced. Therefore revenue is recognized upon shipment or delivery of these products. Costs incurred to obtain contracts with customers are not significant and are expensed immediately as the amortization period would be one year or less. When the Company incurs pre-production or other fulfillment costs in connection with an existing or specific anticipated contract and such costs are recoverable through margin or explicitly reimbursable, such costs are capitalized and amortized to Cost of goods sold on a systematic basis that is consistent with the pattern of transfer to the customer of the goods or services to which the asset relates, which is less than one year. We record bad debt expense in specific situations when we determine the customer is unable to meet its financial obligation. Included in Trade accounts receivable at December 31, 2018 is approximately $590.3 million arising from contracts with customers. The remaining balance of Trade accounts receivable at December 31, 2018 primarily includes value-added taxes collected from customers on behalf of various taxing authorities.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash and money market investments with insignificant interest rate risks and no limitations on access.
Inventories	Inventories Inventories are stated at lower of cost and net realizable value 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.
Resource Development Expenses	Resource Development Expenses We incur costs in resource exploration, evaluation and development during the different phases of our resource development projects. Exploration costs incurred before obtaining legal rights to explore an area are generally expensed as incurred. After obtaining legal rights, exploration costs are expensed in areas where we have uncertainty about obtaining proven resources. In areas where we have substantial knowledge about the area and consider it probable to obtain commercially viable proven resources, exploration and evaluation costs are capitalized. If technical feasibility studies have been obtained, resource evaluation expenses are capitalized when the study demonstrates proven or probable resources for which future economic returns are expected, while costs for projects that are not considered viable are expensed. Development costs that are necessary to bring the property to commercial production or increase the capacity or useful life are capitalized. Costs to maintain the production capacity in a property under production are expensed as incurred. Capitalized resource costs are depleted using the units-of-production method. Our resource development assets are evaluated for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.
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. 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, if the calculated discount is material. 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. Our reporting units are either our operating business segments or one level below our operating business segments for which discrete financial information is available and for which operating results are regularly reviewed by the business management. 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, 2018 and concluded there was no impairment as of that date. In addition, no material 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 and customer lists, 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 the majority of 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 2018 , 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 2018 , 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, 2018 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 2017, the Society of Actuaries (“SOA”) published an updated Mortality Improvement Scale, MP-2017. The updated improvement scale incorporates an additional year of mortality data (2015). 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-2017 Mortality Improvement Scale for purposes of measuring our U.S. pension and OPEB obligations at December 31, 2017. In October 2018, the SOA published an updated Mortality Improvement Scale, MP-2018. The updated Improvement Scale incorporates an additional year of mortality (2016). 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-2018 Mortality Improvement Scale for purposes of measuring our U.S. pension and OPEB obligations at December 31, 2018.
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 Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) 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. Tax effects are released from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income using either the specific identification approach or the portfolio approach based on the nature of the underlying item. 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 a portion 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. Our foreign earnings are computed under U.S. federal tax earnings and profits, or E&P, principles. In general, to the extent our financial reporting book basis over tax basis of a foreign subsidiary exceeds these E&P amounts, deferred taxes have not been provided as they are essentially permanent in duration. The determination of the amount of such unrecognized deferred tax liability is not practicable. We provide for deferred income taxes on our undistributed earnings of foreign operations that are not deemed to be indefinitely invested. Management’s assertion of indefinite reinvestment of undistributed foreign earnings was unchanged within the measurement period ending December 22, 2018, as allowed under Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) 118. We will continue to evaluate our permanent investment assertion taking into consideration all relevant, current tax laws. On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJA”) was signed into law in the U.S. The TCJA contains several key tax provisions including, among other things, the reduction of the corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018, the requirement of companies to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred, and the creation of new taxes on certain foreign sourced earnings such as global intangible low-taxed income (“GILTI”). A company can elect an accounting policy to account for GILTI as a period charge in the future period the tax arises or as part of deferred taxes related to the investment or subsidiary. The Company has elected to account for GILTI as a period cost.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated other comprehensive loss 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 and revaluation (losses) gains were ($10.5) million , ($11.1) million and $2.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, and are included in Other expenses, net, in our consolidated statements of income, with the unrealized portion included in Other, net, in our consolidated statements of cash flows.
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 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, 2018 and 2017 have not been designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging .
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance designed to enhance comparability of revenue recognition practices across entities, industries, jurisdictions and capital markets. The core principle of the guidance is that revenue recognized from a transaction or event that arises from a contract with a customer should reflect the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for goods or services provided. To achieve that core principle the new guidance sets forth a five-step revenue recognition model that will need to be applied consistently to all contracts with customers, except those that are within the scope of other topics in the ASC. Also required are new disclosures to help users of financial statements better understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenues and cash flows from contracts with customers. The new disclosures include qualitative and quantitative information about contracts with customers, significant judgments made in applying the revenue guidance, and assets recognized related to the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. During 2016, the FASB issued amendments to this new guidance that provided clarification, technical corrections and practical expedients. Topics of potential relevance to the Company include principal versus agent considerations, collectability, presentation of sales tax from customers, contract modifications at transition and accounting transition. These new requirements became effective on January 1, 2018 and did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. We adopted the new standard using the modified retrospective method. We have implemented appropriate changes to the business processes, controls and control activities to support recognition, presentation and disclosure under the new standard for the first quarter of 2018, however, we have not made any significant changes to our existing systems as a result of this new standard. 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. In July 2018, the FASB issued an amendment which would allow entities to initially apply this new standard at the adoption date and recognize a cumulative effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. The Company adopted this standard on January 1, 2019 using this transition method. We evaluated our existing lease contracts and believe this standard will have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. The implementation of this standard will result in the addition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities on our balance sheet by approximately $135 million . We have made the decision to adopt several practical expedients as allowed by this new standard, such as the short-term lease exemption and the relief package. In addition, we have implemented new software, as well as changes to controls that support recognition and disclosure under this new standard. In June 2016, the FASB issued accounting guidance that, among other things, changes the way entities recognize impairment of financial assets by requiring immediate recognition of estimated credit losses expected to occur over the remaining life of the financial asset. Additional disclosures are required regarding an entity’s assumptions, models and methods for estimating the expected credit loss. 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 using a modified retrospective approach. Early adoption is permitted. We currently do not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. In October 2016, the FASB issued accounting guidance that eliminated the deferral of tax effects of intra-entity asset transfers other than inventory. As a result, the tax expense from the intercompany sale of assets, other than inventory, and associated changes to deferred taxes will be recognized when the sale occurs even though the pre-tax effects of the transaction have not been recognized as they are eliminated in consolidation. This guidance was effective using the modified retrospective method as of January 1, 2018, which resulted in an $11.2 million cumulative adjustment to decrease Retained earnings and is not reflected in periods prior to this date. 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 became effective on January 1, 2018 and did not have a significant impact on our consolidated 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 became effective on January 1, 2018 and did not have a significant impact on our consolidated 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 expect to adopt this guidance on January 1, 2020 and do not expect it to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. In March 2017, the FASB issued accounting guidance that changes the presentation of net periodic pension and postretirement benefit cost (“net benefit cost”) in the income statement. This new guidance requires service cost to be presented as part of operating income (expense) and all other components of net benefit cost are to be shown outside of operations. This guidance became effective on January 1, 2018 and did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. The consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 have been recast to conform to the current presentation required by this guidance. See Note 15, “Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits,” for additional details. In May 2017, the FASB issued accounting guidance to clarify when to account for a change to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award as a modification. Under the new guidance, modification accounting is required only if the fair value, the vesting conditions, or the classification of the award (as equity or liability) changes as a result of the change in terms or conditions. This new guidance became effective on January 1, 2018 and did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. In August 2017, the FASB issued accounting guidance to better align an entity’s risk management activities with hedge accounting, simply the application of hedge accounting, and increase transparency as to the scope and results of hedging programs. This guidance will make more financial and nonfinancial hedging strategies eligible for hedge accounting. It also amends the presentation and disclosure requirements and changes how companies assess effectiveness. In October 2018, the FASB issued additional guidance that permits the use of the Overnight Index Swap Rate based on the Secured Overnight Financing Rate as a U.S. benchmark interest rate for hedge accounting purposes under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging . These new requirements will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years, and are 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 consolidated financial statements. In February 2018, the FASB issued accounting guidance that gives companies the option to reclassify stranded tax effects caused by the TCJA from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings. As allowed by its provisions, we early-adopted this new guidance in the fourth quarter of 2018, which resulted in a $6.9 million cumulative adjustment to decrease Retained earnings and is not reflected in periods prior to this date. In August 2018, the FASB issued accounting guidance that, among other things, eliminates certain disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. Under the new guidance, entities will no longer be required to disclose (a) the amount of and reasons for transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy and (b) the policy for timing of transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy. As allowed by its provisions, we early-adopted this new guidance in the third quarter of 2018. The adoption of this new guidance did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. In August 2018, the FASB issued accounting guidance that, among other things, eliminates certain disclosure requirements for defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans. Under the new guidance, entities will no longer be required to disclose the amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year. As allowed by its provisions, we early-adopted this new guidance in the third quarter of 2018. The adoption of this new guidance did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. In August 2018, the FASB issued accounting guidance that requires implementation costs incurred in a cloud computing arrangement that is a service contract to be capitalized. Entities will be required to recognize the capitalized implementation costs to expense over the noncancellable term of the cloud computing arrangement. As allowed by its provisions, we early-adopted this new guidance in the first quarter of 2019, although we do not expect it to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Divestitures (Tables)

Divestitures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations	The major components of Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 Net sales $ 813,285 Cost of goods sold 416,934 Operating expenses, net (a) 268,402 Interest and financing expenses (b) 38,227 Other income, net (2,485 ) Gain on sale of discontinued operations (387,980 ) Income before income taxes 480,187 Income tax expense (c) 278,056 Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) $ 202,131 (a) Operating expenses, net for discontinued operations includes mark-to market actuarial losses of $8.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2016. (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. (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. Depreciation and amortization and capital expenditures from discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2016 were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2016 Depreciation and amortization $ 35,194 Capital expenditures $ 19,281 The carrying amounts of the major classes of assets and liabilities that were classified as held for sale at December 31, 2017, are as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2017 Assets Current assets $ 39,152 Net property, plant and equipment 121,759 Goodwill 14,422 Other intangibles, net of amortization 3,632 Assets held for sale $ 178,965 Liabilities Current liabilities $ 1,938 Noncurrent liabilities 614 Liabilities held for sale $ 2,552

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_2

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 2017 2016 Cash paid during the year for: Income taxes (net of refunds of $21,459, $17,522 and $9,270 in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively) (a) $ 157,758 $ 320,222 $ 143,404 Interest (net of capitalization) $ 49,762 $ 61,243 $ 96,948 Supplemental non-cash disclosures related to investing activities: Capital expenditures included in Accounts payable $ 134,784 $ 89,188 $ 33,622 (a) Includes approximately $41 million of income taxes paid in 2018 from the gain on sale of the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture, and $257 million of income taxes paid in 2017 from the gain on sale of the Chemetall Surface Treatment business.

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 2017 2016 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations Numerator: Net income from continuing operations $ 739,139 $ 99,468 $ 478,638 Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (45,577 ) (44,618 ) (37,094 ) Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 693,562 $ 54,850 $ 441,544 Denominator: Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share 108,427 110,914 112,379 Basic earnings per share from continuing operations $ 6.40 $ 0.49 $ 3.93 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations Numerator: Net income from continuing operations $ 739,139 $ 99,468 $ 478,638 Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (45,577 ) (44,618 ) (37,094 ) Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 693,562 $ 54,850 $ 441,544 Denominator: Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share 108,427 110,914 112,379 Incremental shares under stock compensation plans 1,031 1,466 860 Weighted-average common shares for diluted earnings per share 109,458 112,380 113,239 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations $ 6.34 $ 0.49 $ 3.90

Other Accounts Receivable (Tabl

Other Accounts Receivable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Receivables [Abstract]
Other Accounts Receivable	Other accounts receivable consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Value added tax/consumption tax $ 40,480 $ 23,158 Other 11,579 14,779 Total $ 52,059 $ 37,937

Inventories (Tables)

Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Breakdown of Inventories	The following table provides a breakdown of inventories at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Finished goods (a) $ 482,355 $ 404,239 Raw materials and work in process (b) 158,290 132,891 Stores, supplies and other 59,895 55,651 Total (c) $ 700,540 $ 592,781 (a) Increase primarily due to the build-up of inventory in our Lithium segment for a forecasted increase in sales in 2019. (b) Included $71.4 million and $59.6 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, of work in process related to lithium brine. (c) As of December 31, 2017, $24.7 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, 2018
Other Assets [Abstract]
Other Current Assets	Other current assets consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Income tax receivables $ 40,116 $ 47,130 Prepaid expenses 43,172 86,348 Other 1,502 2,586 Total $ 84,790 $ 136,064

Property, Plant and Equipment (

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment, at Cost	Property, plant and equipment, at cost, consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): Useful Lives (Years) December 31, 2018 2017 Land — $ 123,518 $ 118,428 Land improvements 10 – 30 63,349 63,328 Buildings and improvements 10 – 45 251,980 245,482 Machinery and equipment (a) 2 – 45 2,780,478 2,627,667 Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs 7 – 60 696,033 675,832 Construction in progress — 883,705 393,598 Total (b) $ 4,799,063 $ 4,124,335 (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, 2017, $215.9 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, 2018
Investments [Abstract]
Investment Balances	The following table details our investment balances at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Joint ventures $ 486,032 $ 499,756 Nonmarketable securities 9,177 3,655 Marketable equity securities 33,513 30,653 Total $ 528,722 $ 534,064
Ownership Positions in Significant Unconsolidated Investments	Our ownership positions in significant unconsolidated investments are shown below: December 31, 2018 2017 2016 * Windfield Holdings Pty. Ltd. - a joint venture with Sichuan Tianqi Lithium Industries, Inc., that mines lithium ore and produces lithium concentrate 49 % 49 % 49 % * Nippon Aluminum Alkyls - a joint venture with Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. that produces aluminum alkyls 50 % 50 % 50 % * Nippon Ketjen Company Limited - a joint venture with Sumitomo Metal Mining Company Limited that produces refinery catalysts 50 % 50 % 50 % * Eurecat S.A. - a joint venture with Axens Group for refinery catalysts regeneration services 50 % 50 % 50 % * Fábrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A. - a joint venture with Petrobras Quimica S.A. - PETROQUISA that produces catalysts and includes catalysts research and product development activities 50 % 50 % 50 %
Summary of Assets, Liabilities and Results of Operations for Significant Unconsolidated Joint Ventures	The following summary lists the assets, liabilities and results of operations for our significant unconsolidated joint ventures presented herein (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Summary of Balance Sheet Information: Current assets $ 476,460 $ 503,043 Noncurrent assets 1,159,866 1,041,519 Total assets $ 1,636,326 $ 1,544,562 Current liabilities $ 191,971 $ 133,670 Noncurrent liabilities 422,769 405,662 Total liabilities $ 614,740 $ 539,332 Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Summary of Statements of Income Information: Net sales $ 829,590 $ 687,561 $ 590,980 Gross profit $ 456,518 $ 353,577 $ 267,241 Income before income taxes $ 332,632 $ 267,805 $ 189,016 Net income $ 225,791 $ 184,777 $ 126,872

Other Assets (Tables)

Other Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other Assets	Other assets consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Deferred income taxes (a) $ 17,029 $ 25,108 Assets related to unrecognized tax benefits (a) 12,984 14,601 Other (b) 50,122 34,455 Total $ 80,135 $ 74,164 (a) See Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 20, “Income Taxes.” (b) As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, a $28.7 million reserve was recorded against a note receivable on one of our European entities no longer deemed probable of collection.

Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill and Other Intangibles (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): Lithium Bromine Specialties Catalysts All Other Total Balance at December 31, 2016 (a) $ 1,326,980 $ 20,319 $ 186,147 $ 6,586 $ 1,540,032 Acquisitions (b) (26,151 ) — — — (26,151 ) Reclass to assets held for sale (c) — — (14,422 ) — (14,422 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 88,260 — 22,636 — 110,896 Balance at December 31, 2017 (a) 1,389,089 20,319 194,361 6,586 1,610,355 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (34,310 ) — (8,876 ) — (43,186 ) Balance at December 31, 2018 $ 1,354,779 $ 20,319 $ 185,485 $ 6,586 $ 1,567,169 (a) The December 31, 2016 and 2017 balances have been recast to reflect a change in segments. See Note 24, “Segment and Geographic Area Information,” for additional information. (b) Primarily represents final purchase price adjustments for the Jiangli New Materials acquisition recorded for the year ended December 31, 2017. See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (c) Represents Goodwill of the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
Other Intangibles	Other intangibles consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): Customer Lists and Relationships Trade Names and Trademarks (a) Patents and Technology Other Total Gross Asset Value Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 387,893 $ 16,514 $ 38,434 $ 18,844 $ 461,685 Acquisitions (b) 19,225 1,429 20,381 18,847 $ 59,882 Reclass to assets held for sale (c) — — — (4,228 ) (4,228 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 32,194 1,038 2,803 3,793 39,828 Balance at December 31, 2017 439,312 18,981 61,618 37,256 557,167 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (10,940 ) (528 ) (5,817 ) 6,452 (10,833 ) Balance at December 31, 2018 $ 428,372 $ 18,453 $ 55,801 $ 43,708 $ 546,334 Accumulated Amortization Balance at December 31, 2016 $ (49,165 ) $ (7,952 ) $ (31,683 ) $ (18,321 ) $ (107,121 ) Amortization (21,288 ) — (1,412 ) (2,379 ) (25,079 ) Reclass to assets held for sale (c) — — — 596 596 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (4,251 ) (343 ) (2,108 ) 2,642 (4,060 ) Balance at December 31, 2017 (74,704 ) (8,295 ) (35,203 ) (17,462 ) (135,664 ) Amortization (23,402 ) — (1,450 ) (3,127 ) (27,979 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other 2,309 119 1,405 (381 ) 3,452 Balance at December 31, 2018 $ (95,797 ) $ (8,176 ) $ (35,248 ) $ (20,970 ) $ (160,191 ) Net Book Value at December 31, 2017 $ 364,608 $ 10,686 $ 26,415 $ 19,794 $ 421,503 Net Book Value at December 31, 2018 $ 332,575 $ 10,277 $ 20,553 $ 22,738 $ 386,143 (a) Includes only indefinite-lived intangible assets. (b) Represents final purchase price adjustments for the Jiangli New Materials acquisition and the acquisition of the remaining equity interest in Salmag. See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (c) Represents Other intangibles and related amortization of the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture. 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 for the next five fiscal years is as follows (in thousands): Estimated Amortization Expense 2019 $ 27,219 2020 $ 24,878 2021 $ 24,600 2022 $ 24,006 2023 $ 23,395

Accrued Expenses (Tables)

Accrued Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued Expenses	Accrued expenses consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Employee benefits, payroll and related taxes $ 77,814 $ 93,393 Other (a) 179,509 174,943 Total $ 257,323 $ 268,336 (a) No individual component exceeds 5% of total current liabilities.

Long-Term Debt (Tables)

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	Long-term debt consisted of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 1.875% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $2,841 at December 31, 2018 and $3,971 at December 31, 2017 444,155 463,575 4.15% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $2,884 at December 31, 2018 and $3,372 at December 31, 2017 422,116 421,628 4.50% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $589 at December 31, 2018 and $891 at December 31, 2017 174,626 174,325 5.45% Senior notes, net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs of $4,004 at December 31, 2018 and $4,159 at December 31, 2017 345,996 345,841 Commercial paper notes 306,606 421,321 Variable-rate foreign bank loans 7,216 5,298 Other 4,495 5,384 Total long-term debt 1,705,210 1,837,372 Less amounts due within one year 307,294 422,012 Long-term debt, less current portion $ 1,397,916 $ 1,415,360

Pension Plans and Other Postr_2

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations, Fair Value of Plan Assets, and Funded Status of Plan	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, 2018 2017 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Change in benefit obligations: Benefit obligation at January 1 $ 56,647 $ 56,141 Service cost 117 121 Interest cost 2,168 2,340 Actuarial (gain) loss (5,661 ) 2,008 Benefits paid (2,881 ) (3,963 ) Benefit obligation at December 31 $ 50,390 $ 56,647 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at January 1 $ 834 $ 2,232 Actual return on plan assets (253 ) 104 Employer contributions 2,300 2,461 Benefits paid (2,881 ) (3,963 ) Fair value of plan assets at December 31 $ — $ 834 Funded status at December 31 $ (50,390 ) $ (55,813 ) December 31, 2018 2017 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets: Current liabilities (accrued expenses) $ (4,233 ) $ (3,810 ) Noncurrent liabilities (postretirement benefits) (46,157 ) (52,003 ) Net postretirement liability $ (50,390 ) $ (55,813 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income: Prior service benefit $ — $ 48 Net amount recognized $ — $ 48 Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate 4.55 % 3.99 % Rate of compensation increase 3.50 % 3.50 % 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, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Change in benefit obligations: Benefit obligation at January 1 $ 685,963 $ 275,006 $ 665,688 $ 246,280 Service cost 1,043 3,919 985 2,547 Interest cost 26,804 5,144 28,614 5,128 Plan amendments — 233 — — Actuarial (gain) loss (36,844 ) (17,885 ) 30,539 2,783 Benefits paid (41,100 ) (9,974 ) (39,863 ) (9,524 ) Employee contributions — 182 — 215 Foreign exchange (gain) loss — (12,632 ) — 30,711 Settlements/curtailments — (3,628 ) — (3,065 ) Other — (62 ) — (69 ) Benefit obligation at December 31 $ 635,866 $ 240,303 $ 685,963 $ 275,006 Change in plan assets: Fair value of plan assets at January 1 $ 580,396 $ 79,478 $ 538,082 $ 68,875 Actual return on plan assets (28,457 ) (1,593 ) 80,613 6,260 Employer contributions 2,236 10,700 1,564 9,316 Benefits paid (41,100 ) (9,974 ) (39,863 ) (9,524 ) Employee contributions — 182 — 215 Foreign exchange (loss) gain — (4,519 ) — 7,470 Settlements/curtailments — (3,628 ) — (3,065 ) Other — (62 ) — (69 ) Fair value of plan assets at December 31 $ 513,075 $ 70,584 $ 580,396 $ 79,478 Funded status at December 31 $ (122,791 ) $ (169,719 ) $ (105,567 ) $ (195,528 ) December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Amounts recognized in consolidated balance sheets: Current liabilities (accrued expenses) $ (1,342 ) $ (5,772 ) $ (1,267 ) $ (5,217 ) Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits) (121,449 ) (163,947 ) (104,300 ) (190,311 ) Net pension liability $ (122,791 ) $ (169,719 ) $ (105,567 ) $ (195,528 ) Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income: Prior service benefit $ — $ (409 ) $ (60 ) $ (269 ) Net amount recognized $ — $ (409 ) $ (60 ) $ (269 ) Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31: Discount rate 4.59 % 2.15 % 4.03 % 1.94 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.63 % — % 3.18 %
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs	The components of postretirement benefits (credit) cost from continuing operations are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Service cost $ 117 $ 121 $ 115 Interest cost 2,168 2,340 2,483 Expected return on assets (7 ) (110 ) (187 ) Actuarial (gain) loss (5,400 ) 2,014 1,275 Amortization of prior service benefit (48 ) (95 ) (95 ) Total net postretirement benefits (credit) cost $ (3,170 ) $ 4,270 $ 3,591 Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 3.99 % 4.35 % 4.59 % Expected return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % Rate of compensation increase 3.50 % 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, 2018 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Service cost $ 1,043 $ 3,919 $ 985 $ 2,547 $ 1,028 $ 3,133 Interest cost 26,804 5,144 28,614 5,128 30,514 6,570 Expected return on assets (38,621 ) (4,204 ) (36,243 ) (4,441 ) (36,445 ) (4,027 ) Actuarial loss (gain) 30,234 (10,833 ) (13,910 ) 483 5,988 19,418 Amortization of prior service benefit 60 34 75 56 75 859 Total net pension benefits cost (credit) (a) $ 19,520 $ (5,940 ) $ (20,479 ) $ 3,773 $ 1,160 $ 25,953 Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 4.03 % 1.94 % 4.43 % 2.00 % 4.67 % 2.76 % Expected return on plan assets 6.89 % 5.52 % 6.89 % 6.16 % 6.89 % 6.66 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.18 % — % 3.18 % — % 3.16 % (a) For the year ended December 31, 2016, $10.8 million of net pension benefits credit is included in Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.
Schedule of Assumptions Used	The components of pension benefits cost (credit) from continuing operations are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended Year Ended Year Ended December 31, 2018 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans U.S. Pension Plans Foreign Pension Plans Service cost $ 1,043 $ 3,919 $ 985 $ 2,547 $ 1,028 $ 3,133 Interest cost 26,804 5,144 28,614 5,128 30,514 6,570 Expected return on assets (38,621 ) (4,204 ) (36,243 ) (4,441 ) (36,445 ) (4,027 ) Actuarial loss (gain) 30,234 (10,833 ) (13,910 ) 483 5,988 19,418 Amortization of prior service benefit 60 34 75 56 75 859 Total net pension benefits cost (credit) (a) $ 19,520 $ (5,940 ) $ (20,479 ) $ 3,773 $ 1,160 $ 25,953 Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 4.03 % 1.94 % 4.43 % 2.00 % 4.67 % 2.76 % Expected return on plan assets 6.89 % 5.52 % 6.89 % 6.16 % 6.89 % 6.66 % Rate of compensation increase — % 3.18 % — % 3.18 % — % 3.16 % (a) For the year ended December 31, 2016, $10.8 million of net pension benefits credit is included in Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) in the consolidated statements of income. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. The components of postretirement benefits (credit) cost from continuing operations are as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits Service cost $ 117 $ 121 $ 115 Interest cost 2,168 2,340 2,483 Expected return on assets (7 ) (110 ) (187 ) Actuarial (gain) loss (5,400 ) 2,014 1,275 Amortization of prior service benefit (48 ) (95 ) (95 ) Total net postretirement benefits (credit) cost $ (3,170 ) $ 4,270 $ 3,591 Weighted-average assumption percentages: Discount rate 3.99 % 4.35 % 4.59 % Expected return on plan assets 7.00 % 7.00 % 7.00 % Rate of compensation increase 3.50 % 3.50 % 3.50 %
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, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 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) $ 113,355 $ 111,665 $ 1,690 $ — International Equity (b) 114,554 90,651 23,903 — Fixed Income (c) 254,437 219,124 35,313 — Absolute Return Measured at Net Asset Value (d) 71,987 — — — Cash 29,326 29,326 — — Total Pension Assets $ 583,659 $ 450,766 $ 60,906 $ — December 31, 2017 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) $ 163,160 $ 160,976 $ 2,184 $ — International Equity (b) 130,935 101,366 29,569 — Fixed Income (c) 269,365 231,506 37,859 — Absolute Return Measured at Net Asset Value (d) 96,414 — — — Total Pension Assets $ 659,874 $ 493,848 $ 69,612 $ — Postretirement Assets: Fixed Income (c) $ 834 $ — $ 834 $ — (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. The fair value amounts of $72.0 million and $96.4 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, are included in this table to permit reconciliation to the reconciliation of plan assets table above.
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets	The weighted-average target allocations as of the measurement date are as follows: Target Allocation Equity securities 43 % Fixed income 44 % Absolute return 13 %
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 2019 $ 42.0 $ 12.9 $ 4.2 2020 $ 43.0 $ 9.4 $ 4.0 2021 $ 43.5 $ 9.7 $ 3.8 2022 $ 43.9 $ 9.2 $ 3.8 2023 $ 44.3 $ 12.1 $ 3.7 2024-2028 $ 220.6 $ 52.1 $ 17.4

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (T

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Other Noncurrent Liabilities	Other noncurrent liabilities consist of the following at December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Transition tax on foreign earnings (a) $ 317,745 $ 394,878 Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions (b) 22,877 24,369 Executive deferred compensation plan obligation 26,292 25,494 Environmental liabilities (c) 40,376 37,518 Asset retirement obligations (c) 41,489 40,450 Tax indemnification liability (d) 45,347 42,707 Other (e) 32,816 33,758 Total $ 526,942 $ 599,174 (a) Noncurrent portion of one-time transition tax on foreign earnings. See Note 20, “Income Taxes,” for additional information. (b) See Note 20, “Income Taxes.” (c) See Note 17, “Commitments and Contingencies.” (d) Indemnification of certain income and non-income tax liabilities associated with the Chemetall Surface Treatment entities sold, as well as the proposed settlement of an ongoing audit of a previously disposed business in Germany. (e) No individual component exceeds 5% of total liabilities.

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Balance, beginning of year $ 39,808 $ 34,919 $ 31,436 Expenditures (6,885 ) (1,818 ) (2,667 ) Accretion of discount 1,283 896 793 Additions and changes in estimates (a) 17,039 3,344 4,004 Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (1,676 ) 2,467 1,353 Balance, end of year 49,569 39,808 34,919 Less amounts reported in Accrued expenses 9,193 2,290 2,324 Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities $ 40,376 $ 37,518 $ 32,595 (a) Increase in additions primarily related to the indemnification of the buyer of a formerly owned site. As defined in the agreement of sale, this indemnification has a set cutoff date in 2024, at which point we will no longer be required to provide financial coverage.
Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation	The following is a reconciliation of our beginning and ending asset retirement obligation balances for 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 Balance, beginning of year $ 40,450 $ 36,296 Additions and changes in estimates 740 3,859 Accretion of discount 1,500 1,532 Liabilities settled (786 ) (789 ) Foreign currency translation adjustments and other (415 ) (448 ) Balance, end of year $ 41,489 $ 40,450
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 2019 $ 25,608 2020 $ 17,918 2021 $ 12,478 2022 $ 10,794 2023 $ 10,109 Thereafter $ 87,085
Letters of Credit and Guarantee Agreements	The following table summarizes our letters of credit and guarantee agreements (in thousands): 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Thereafter Letters of credit and other guarantees $ 45,342 $ 12,924 $ 1,883 $ 1,277 $ — $ 10,389

Stock-based Compensation Expe_2

Stock-based Compensation Expense (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 : Shares Weighted-Average Exercise Price Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years) Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands) Outstanding at December 31, 2017 1,401,718 $ 56.10 5.1 $ 100,632 Granted 63,259 118.75 Exercised (94,031 ) 38.64 Forfeited (54,213 ) 75.72 Outstanding at December 31, 2018 1,316,733 $ 59.55 4.3 $ 26,438 Exercisable at December 31, 2018 911,011 $ 54.28 3.2 $ 20,872
Weighted-Average Assumptions used to Estimate Fair Value of Each Option Granted	The calculation used the following weighted-average assumptions: Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Volatility 29.92 % 30.34 % 27.69 % Risk-free interest rate 2.36 % 1.34 % 0.91 % The fair value of each option granted during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions: Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Dividend yield 1.44 % 1.56 % 1.84 % Volatility 32.48 % 32.70 % 33.08 % Average expected life (years) 6 6 6 Risk-free interest rate 3.06 % 2.51 % 1.96 % Fair value of options granted $ 37.35 $ 27.99 $ 16.06
Activity in Performance Unit Awards	The following table summarizes activity in performance unit awards as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 : Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested, beginning of period 433,003 $ 75.55 Granted 70,274 155.65 Vested (164,303 ) 61.72 Forfeited (21,537 ) 120.49 Nonvested, end of period 317,437 97.39
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, 2018 : Shares Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share Nonvested, beginning of period 223,338 $ 71.95 Granted 104,513 104.36 Vested (48,178 ) 66.93 Forfeited (22,155 ) 78.98 Nonvested, end of period 257,518 85.44

Accumulated Other Comprehensi_2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Foreign Currency Translation (a) Pension and Post-Retirement Benefits (b) Net Investment Hedge Interest Rate Swap (c) Total 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 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 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 227,439 — (41,827 ) — 185,612 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss — (97 ) — 2,116 2,019 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 227,439 (97 ) (41,827 ) 2,116 187,631 Other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests (887 ) — — — (887 ) Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2017 $ (257,569 ) $ (21 ) $ 46,551 $ (14,629 ) $ (225,668 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (150,258 ) — 15,695 — (134,563 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (d) — (138 ) 10,091 (585 ) 9,368 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (150,258 ) (138 ) 25,786 (585 ) (125,195 ) Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests 181 — — — 181 Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income - balance at December 31, 2018 $ (407,646 ) $ (159 ) $ 72,337 $ (15,214 ) $ (350,682 ) (a) Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2016 is included in Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) for the year ended December 31, 2016 and resulted from the release of cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments into earnings upon the sale of our Chemetall Surface Treatment business which closed on December 14, 2016. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (b) The pre-tax portion of amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 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,” for additional information. (c) The pre-tax portion of amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss is included in interest expense. (d) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss include a net benefit of $6.9 million , which was reclassified to Retained earnings for stranded tax effects caused by the TCJA. See “Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements,” included in Note 1, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies,” for additional information.
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, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 is provided in the following tables (in thousands): Foreign Currency Translation Pension and Postretirement Benefits Net Investment Hedge Interest Rate Swap 2018 Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax $ (150,262 ) $ (128 ) $ 20,424 $ 3,336 Income tax benefit (expense) 4 (10 ) 5,362 (3,921 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax $ (150,258 ) $ (138 ) $ 25,786 $ (585 ) 2017 Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax $ 228,508 $ (96 ) $ (65,958 ) $ 3,336 Income tax (expense) benefit (1,069 ) (1 ) 24,131 (1,220 ) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax $ 227,439 $ (97 ) $ (41,827 ) $ 2,116 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

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 2017 2016 Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments: Domestic $ 223,702 $ (8,293 ) $ 49,630 Foreign 570,999 455,091 465,634 Total $ 794,701 $ 446,798 $ 515,264 Current income tax expense (benefit): Federal $ (2,712 ) $ 394,747 $ 7,717 State 6,793 323 1,407 Foreign 91,581 78,688 63,957 Total $ 95,662 $ 473,758 $ 73,081 Deferred income tax (benefit) expense: Federal $ 15,573 $ (58,640 ) $ 12,230 State 1,614 (2,288 ) (1,715 ) Foreign 31,977 18,987 12,667 Total $ 49,164 $ (41,941 ) $ 23,182 Total income tax expense $ 144,826 $ 431,817 $ 96,263
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 2018 2017 2016 Federal statutory rate 21.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % State taxes, net of federal tax benefit 0.9 (0.5 ) (0.1 ) Change in valuation allowance (a) 0.7 (1.4 ) 3.7 Impact of foreign earnings, net (b) (0.3 ) (13.5 ) (19.3 ) Global intangible low tax inclusion 0.8 — — Change in U.S. federal statutory rate (c) 0.1 (14.0 ) — Transition tax on deferred foreign earnings (d) (5.3 ) 96.1 — Subpart F income 0.9 2.0 0.2 Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries — (2.2 ) 0.1 Stock-based compensation (0.7 ) (1.9 ) — Depletion (0.6 ) (1.4 ) (1.0 ) Revaluation of unrecognized tax benefits/reserve requirements — (0.7 ) (0.4 ) Domestic manufacturing tax deduction — — (0.9 ) Other items, net 0.7 (0.9 ) 1.4 Effective income tax rate 18.2 % 96.6 % 18.7 % (a) The year ended December 31, 2018 includes an $8.2 million expense due to the establishment of a valuation allowance due to a foreign restructuring plan and a $1.5 million benefit due to the release of a foreign valuation allowance due to changes in expected profitability. 2017 includes a $10.9 million benefit from the release of valuation allowances due to a foreign restructuring plan. (b) 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 resulted in a rate benefit of 3.3% , 8.9% , and 7.3% for 2018 , 2017 , and 2016 , respectively. (c) At December 31, 2017 we have made a reasonable estimate of the tax impact of the U.S. enacted tax law on our business and our consolidated financial statements and have recorded a provisional tax benefit of $62.3 million related to the remeasurement of our deferred tax assets and liabilities for the reduction in the Federal statutory tax rate from 35% to 21% . In 2018, the updates to our calculation of the remeasurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities resulted in income tax expense of $0.4 million . (d) At December 31, 2017 we made a reasonable estimate of the tax impact of the U.S. enacted tax law on our business and our consolidated financial statements and recognized a provisional tax expense of $429.2 million for the one-time transition tax. During 2018, the impact of the refined one-time transition tax calculation was an income tax benefit of $42.3 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, 2018 and 2017 consist of the following (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Deferred tax assets: Accrued employee benefits $ 18,462 $ 21,463 Operating loss carryovers (a) 1,210,377 459,644 Pensions 61,308 64,799 Tax credit carryovers 1,270 11,634 Other 35,895 44,714 Gross deferred tax assets 1,327,312 602,254 Valuation allowance (a) (1,213,750 ) (458,288 ) Deferred tax assets 113,562 143,966 Deferred tax liabilities: Depreciation (337,503 ) (334,162 ) Intangibles (88,871 ) (113,792 ) Hedge of net investment of foreign subsidiary (21,854 ) (17,028 ) Other (31,287 ) (24,265 ) Deferred tax liabilities (479,515 ) (489,247 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (365,953 ) $ (345,281 ) Classification in the consolidated balance sheets: Noncurrent deferred tax assets $ 17,029 $ 25,108 Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities (382,982 ) (370,389 ) Net deferred tax liabilities $ (365,953 ) $ (345,281 ) (a) During 2018, the Company recognized intercompany losses at a foreign entity related to international restructuring resulting in an increase to the deferred tax asset for net operating losses and an associated and equal valuation allowance of $749.8 million .
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, 2018 2017 2016 Balance at January 1 $ (458,288 ) $ (69,900 ) $ (84,137 ) Additions (766,012 ) (408,252 ) (20,568 ) Deductions 10,550 19,864 34,805 Balance at December 31 $ (1,213,750 ) $ (458,288 ) $ (69,900 )
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 2018 , 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Balance at January 1 $ 21,438 $ 25,384 $ 95,715 Divestitures (a) — — (55,881 ) Additions for tax positions related to prior years 874 — 548 Reductions for tax positions related to prior years — (1,933 ) (1,253 ) Additions for tax positions related to current year 1,091 1,132 1,271 Lapses in statutes of limitations/settlements (3,578 ) (4,198 ) (12,591 ) Foreign currency translation adjustment (83 ) 1,053 (2,425 ) Balance at December 31 $ 19,742 $ 21,438 $ 25,384 (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.”

Fair Value of Financial Instr_2

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 2017 Recorded Amount Fair Value Recorded Amount Fair Value (In thousands) Long-term debt $ 1,712,003 $ 1,731,271 $ 1,845,309 $ 1,949,638
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value	The following table summarizes the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts included in the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Foreign currency forward contracts - Other accounts receivable $ 431 $ — Foreign currency forward contracts - Accrued expenses $ — $ 4,954
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)	The following table summarizes these net (losses) gains recognized in our consolidated statements of income during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Foreign currency forward contracts (losses) gains $ (19,851 ) $ 4,588 $ 16,095

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): December 31, 2018 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) $ 26,292 $ 26,292 $ — $ — Private equity securities (b) $ 26 $ 26 $ — $ — Private equity securities measured at net asset value (b)(c) $ 7,195 $ — $ — $ — Foreign currency forward contracts (d) $ 431 $ — $ 431 $ — Liabilities: Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 26,292 $ 26,292 $ — $ — December 31, 2017 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) $ 25,494 $ 25,494 $ — $ — Private equity securities (b) $ 38 $ 38 $ — $ — Private equity securities measured at net asset value (b)(c) $ 5,121 $ — $ — $ — Liabilities: Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan (a) $ 25,494 $ 25,494 $ — $ — Foreign currency forward contracts (d) $ 4,954 $ — $ 4,954 $ — (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 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. The fair value amounts of $7.2 million and $5.1 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively, are included in this table to permit reconciliation to the marketable equity securities presented in Note 10, “Investments.” (d) As a result of our global operating and financing activities, we are exposed to market risks from changes in foreign currency exchange rates, which may adversely affect our operating results and financial position. When deemed appropriate, we minimize our risks from foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations through the use of foreign currency forward contracts. Unless otherwise noted, these derivative financial instruments are not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging . The foreign currency forward contracts are valued using broker quotations or market transactions in either the listed or over-the-counter markets. As such, these derivative instruments are classified within Level 2.

Related Party Transactions (Tab

Related Party Transactions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions	Our consolidated statements of income include sales to and purchases from unconsolidated affiliates in the ordinary course of business as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Sales to unconsolidated affiliates $ 35,094 $ 29,514 $ 29,651 Purchases from unconsolidated affiliates (a) $ 256,701 $ 209,266 $ 130,287 (a) Purchases from unconsolidated affiliates primarily relate to purchases from our Windfield joint venture. Our consolidated balance sheets include accounts receivable due from and payable to unconsolidated affiliates in the ordinary course of business as follows (in thousands): December 31, 2018 2017 Receivables from related parties (a) $ 14,348 $ 2,406 Payables to related parties $ 68,357 $ 55,801 (a) Increase in receivables from related parties balance due to timing of payments in the normal course of business from one of our Catalysts joint ventures.

Segment and Geographic Area I_2

Segment and Geographic Area Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments	Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 (In thousands) Net sales: Lithium $ 1,228,171 $ 1,018,885 $ 668,852 Bromine Specialties 917,880 855,143 792,425 Catalysts 1,101,554 1,067,572 1,031,501 All Other 127,186 128,914 180,988 Corporate 159 1,462 3,437 Total net sales $ 3,374,950 $ 3,071,976 $ 2,677,203 Adjusted EBITDA: Lithium $ 530,773 $ 446,652 $ 285,714 Bromine Specialties 288,116 258,901 226,926 Catalysts 284,307 283,883 316,609 All Other 14,091 13,878 14,772 Corporate (110,623 ) (117,834 ) (85,804 ) Total adjusted EBITDA $ 1,006,664 $ 885,480 $ 758,217 See below for a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA, the non-GAAP financial measure, from Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP (in thousands): Lithium Bromine Specialties Catalysts Reportable Segments Total All Other Corporate Consolidated Total 2018 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 428,212 $ 246,509 $ 445,604 $ 1,120,325 $ 6,018 $ (432,781 ) $ 693,562 Depreciation and amortization 95,193 41,607 49,131 185,931 8,073 6,694 200,698 Restructuring and other (a) — — — — — 3,838 3,838 Gain on sale of business (b) — — (210,428 ) (210,428 ) — — (210,428 ) Acquisition and integration related costs (c) — — — — — 19,377 19,377 Interest and financing expenses — — — — — 52,405 52,405 Income tax expense — — — — — 144,826 144,826 Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — 5,285 5,285 Legal accrual (d) — — — — — 27,027 27,027 Environmental accrual (e) — — — — — 15,597 15,597 Albemarle Foundation contribution (f) — — — — — 15,000 15,000 Indemnification adjustments (g) — — — — — 25,240 25,240 Other (h) 7,368 — — 7,368 — 6,869 14,237 Adjusted EBITDA $ 530,773 $ 288,116 $ 284,307 $ 1,103,196 $ 14,091 $ (110,623 ) $ 1,006,664 2017 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 342,992 $ 218,839 $ 230,665 $ 792,496 $ 5,521 $ (743,167 ) $ 54,850 Depreciation and amortization 87,879 40,062 54,468 182,409 8,357 6,162 196,928 Utilization of inventory markup (i) 23,095 — — 23,095 — — 23,095 Restructuring and other (j) — — — — — 17,056 17,056 Gain on acquisition (k) (6,221 ) — — (6,221 ) — — (6,221 ) Acquisition and integration related costs (c) — — — — — 33,954 33,954 Interest and financing expenses (l) — — — — — 115,350 115,350 Income tax expense — — — — — 431,817 431,817 Non-operating pension and OPEB items — — — — — (16,125 ) (16,125 ) Note receivable reserve (m) — — — — — 28,730 28,730 Other (n) (1,093 ) — (1,250 ) (2,343 ) — 8,389 6,046 Adjusted EBITDA $ 446,652 $ 258,901 $ 283,883 $ 989,436 $ 13,878 $ (117,834 ) $ 885,480 2016 Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 198,852 $ 187,364 $ 265,416 $ 651,632 $ 131,301 $ (139,258 ) $ 643,675 Depreciation and amortization 86,862 39,562 51,193 177,617 7,302 6,056 190,975 (Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net (b) — — — — (123,831 ) 1,533 (122,298 ) Acquisition and integration related costs (c) — — — — — 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 (o) — — — — — 3,579 3,579 Adjusted EBITDA $ 285,714 $ 226,926 $ 316,609 $ 829,249 $ 14,772 $ (85,804 ) $ 758,217 (a) Expected severance payments as part of a business reorganization plan, $0.1 million recorded in Cost of goods sold and $3.7 million recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses. These severance payments have been made during the year ended December 31, 2018. (b) See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information. (c) See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (d) Included in Other expenses, net. See Note 17, “Commitments and Contingencies,” for additional information. (e) Increase in environmental reserve to indemnify the buyer of a formerly owned site recorded in Other expenses, net. As defined in the agreement of sale, this indemnification has a set cutoff date in 2024, at which point we will no longer be required to provide financial coverage. (f) Including in Selling, general and administrative expenses is a charitable contribution, using a portion of the proceeds received from the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture, to the Albemarle Foundation, a non-profit organization that sponsors grants, health and social projects, educational initiatives, disaster relief, matching gift programs, scholarships and other charitable initiatives in locations where our employees live and operate. This contribution is in addition to the normal annual contribution made to the Albemarle Foundation by the Company, and is significant in size and nature in that it is intended to provide more long-term benefits in the communities where we live and operate. (g) Included in Other expenses, net is $19.7 million related to the proposed settlement of an ongoing audit of a previously disposed business in Germany, and $5.5 million related to the revision of indemnifications previously recorded from disposed businesses. (h) Included amounts for the year ended December 31, 2018 recorded in: • Cost of goods sold - $4.9 million for the write-off of fixed assets related to a major capacity expansion in our Jordanian joint venture and $8.8 million related to non-routine labor and compensation related costs in Chile that are outside normal compensation arrangements. • Selling, general and administrative expenses - $2.3 million of shortfall contributions for our multiemployer plan financial improvement plan and a $1.2 million contribution, using a portion of the proceeds received from the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture, to schools in the state of Louisiana for qualified tuition purposes. This contribution is significant in size and is intended to provide long-term benefits for families in the Louisiana community. This was partially offset by a $1.5 million gain related to a refund from Chilean authorities due to an overpayment made in a prior year. • Other expenses, net - $1.5 million gain related to the reversal of previously recorded liabilities of disposed businesses. (i) In connection with the acquisition of Jiangli New Materials, the Company valued inventory purchased from Jiangli New Materials at fair value, which resulted in a markup of the underlying net book value of the inventory totaling approximately $23.1 million . The utilization of this inventory markup was included in Costs of goods sold during the year ended December 31, 2017, the estimated remaining selling period. (j) During 2017, we initiated action to reduce costs in each of our reportable segments at several locations, primarily at our Lithium sites in Germany. Based on the restructuring plans, we have recorded expenses of $2.9 million in Cost of goods sold, $8.4 million in Selling, general and administrative expenses, and $5.7 million in Research and development expenses, primarily related to expected severance payments. The unpaid balance is recorded in Accrued expenses at December 31, 2018, with the expectation that the remaining balance will be paid by the end of 2019. (k) Gain recorded in Other expenses, net related to the acquisition of the remaining 50% interest in Salmag. See Note 2, “Acquisitions,” for additional information. (l) Included in Interest and financing expenses is a loss on early extinguishment of debt of $52.8 million . See Note 14, “Long-Term Debt,” for additional information. (m) Reserve recorded in Other expenses, net against a note receivable on one of our European entities no longer deemed probable of collection. (n) Included amounts for the year ended December 31, 2017 recorded in: • Cost of goods sold - $1.3 million reversal of deferred income related to an abandoned project at an unconsolidated investment. • Selling, general and administrative expenses - $3.3 million of shortfall contributions for our multiemployer plan financial improvement plan, partially offset by $1.0 million related to a reversal of an accrual recorded as part of purchase accounting from a previous acquisition. • Other expenses, net - $3.2 million of asset retirement obligation charges related to the revision of an estimate at a site formerly owned by Albemarle, losses of $8.7 million related to adjustments of settlements and indemnifications of previously disposed businesses, the revision of tax indemnification expenses of $3.7 million primarily related to the filing of tax returns and a competent authority agreement for a previously disposed business and $1.0 million related to the settlement of a legal claim. This is partially offset by gains of $10.6 million and $1.1 million related to the reversal of liabilities recorded as part of purchase accounting from a previous acquisition and the previous disposal of a property, respectively. (o) Included amounts for the year ended December 31, 2016 recorded in: • Selling, general and administrative expenses - $0.9 million related to the net loss on the sales of properties. • Research and development expenses - $1.4 million related to the write-off of fixed assets in China. • Other expenses, net - $2.4 million related to environmental charges related to a site formerly owned by Albemarle, partially offset by a gain related to a previously disposed of site in China of $1.1 million . December 31, 2018 2017 2016 (In thousands) Identifiable assets: Lithium (a) $ 4,605,070 $ 3,979,615 $ 3,499,302 Bromine Specialties 753,157 745,007 724,218 Catalysts 1,134,975 1,332,599 1,224,504 All Other 128,185 126,486 130,595 Corporate (a)(b) 960,287 1,567,065 2,582,588 Total identifiable assets $ 7,581,674 $ 7,750,772 $ 8,161,207 Goodwill: Lithium $ 1,354,779 $ 1,389,089 $ 1,326,980 Bromine Specialties 20,319 20,319 20,319 Catalysts 185,485 194,361 186,147 All Other 6,586 6,586 6,586 Total goodwill $ 1,567,169 $ 1,610,355 $ 1,540,032 (a) The identifiable assets at December 31, 2017, have been revised to correct an error in the previously reported amounts, which understated the Lithium segment and overstated the Corporate category by $238.5 million . There is no impact to the financial statements or total identifiable assets at December 31, 2017. (b) Decrease in Corporate identifiable assets at December 31, 2018 primarily due to the net use of cash and cash equivalents for items such as capital expenditures, share repurchases and commercial paper repayments. 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. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” and Note 14, “Long-Term Debt” for additional details about these transactions. Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 (In thousands) Depreciation and amortization: Lithium $ 95,193 $ 87,879 $ 86,862 Bromine Specialties 41,607 40,062 39,562 Catalysts 49,131 54,468 51,193 Discontinued Operations — — 35,194 All Other 8,073 8,357 7,302 Corporate 6,694 6,162 6,056 Total depreciation and amortization $ 200,698 $ 196,928 $ 226,169 Capital expenditures: Lithium $ 500,849 $ 192,318 $ 72,038 Bromine Specialties 79,357 46,427 46,414 Catalysts 52,019 46,808 47,475 Discontinued Operations — — 19,281 All Other 5,232 3,657 9,251 Corporate 62,534 28,493 2,195 Total capital expenditures $ 699,991 $ 317,703 $ 196,654
Net Sales by Geographic Area	Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 (In thousands) Net Sales (a) : United States $ 887,416 $ 840,589 $ 797,267 Foreign (b) 2,487,534 2,231,387 1,879,936 Total $ 3,374,950 $ 3,071,976 $ 2,677,203 (a) Net sales are attributed to countries based upon shipments to final destination. (b) In 2018, net sales to Korea, China and Japan represented 13% , 12% , and 10% , respectively, of total net sales. In 2017 and 2016, net sales to China represented 15% and 13% , respectively, of total net sales. No net sales in any other foreign country exceed 10% of total net sales.
Long-Lived Assets by Geographic Area	As of December 31, 2018 2017 2016 (In thousands) Long-Lived Assets (a) : United States $ 929,291 $ 833,002 $ 850,689 Chile 1,406,478 1,069,859 922,878 Australia 407,141 364,624 288,553 Jordan 254,800 242,626 227,222 Netherlands 166,853 171,980 145,917 Germany 101,168 115,305 117,027 China 91,160 50,532 31,564 France 43,698 40,852 39,470 Brazil 40,464 47,255 46,380 Korea (b) 111 495 65,963 Other foreign countries 65,826 60,131 57,936 Total $ 3,506,990 $ 2,996,661 $ 2,793,599 (a) Long-lived assets are comprised of the Company’s Property, plant and equipment and Investments. (b) The reduction as of December 31, 2017, relates to the assets of the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture that are included in Assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheet.

Quarterly Financial Summary (_2

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Summary	First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2018 Net sales $ 821,629 $ 853,874 $ 777,748 $ 921,699 Gross profit $ 304,979 $ 311,356 $ 280,537 $ 320,384 (Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net (a) $ — $ (218,705 ) $ — $ 8,277 Net income $ 138,925 $ 310,686 $ 143,479 $ 146,049 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (7,165 ) (8,225 ) (13,734 ) (16,453 ) Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 131,760 $ 302,461 $ 129,745 $ 129,596 Basic earnings per share $ 1.19 $ 2.76 $ 1.21 $ 1.22 Shares used to compute basic earnings per share 110,681 109,671 107,315 106,042 Diluted earnings per share $ 1.18 $ 2.73 $ 1.20 $ 1.21 Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share 111,867 110,659 108,302 107,005 First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2017 Net sales $ 722,063 $ 737,258 $ 754,866 $ 857,789 Gross profit $ 254,956 $ 271,960 $ 275,657 $ 303,703 Net income (loss) $ 62,657 $ 113,689 $ 130,193 $ (207,071 ) Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (11,444 ) (10,356 ) (11,523 ) (11,295 ) Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation $ 51,213 $ 103,333 $ 118,670 $ (218,366 ) Basic earnings (loss) per share $ 0.46 $ 0.93 $ 1.07 $ (1.98 ) Shares used to compute basic earnings per share 111,986 110,686 110,476 110,510 Diluted earnings (loss) per share $ 0.45 $ 0.92 $ 1.06 $ (1.95 ) Shares used to compute diluted earnings per share 113,289 112,105 111,975 112,152 (a) Represents the gain (loss) on the Polyolefin Catalysts Divestiture. See Note 3, “Divestitures,” for additional information.

Summary of Significant Accoun_3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jan. 01, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Jan. 01, 2019
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Out-of-period adjustments			$ 5.1
Trade accounts receivable arising from contracts with customers		$ 590.3
Reduction in federal statutory rate	21.00%	21.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Foreign exchange transaction (losses) gains		$ (10.5)	$ (11.1)	$ 2.4
Maximum remaining expiration period for foreign currency forward contracts		1 year
Minimum
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Payment terms		30 days
Timing between shipment and delivery		1 day
Property, plant and equipment, useful life		2 years
Definite-lived intangible assets useful life		5 years
Maximum
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Payment terms		90 days
Timing between shipment and delivery		45 days
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
Accounting Standards Update 2016-16 | Retained Earnings
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of new accounting principle adopted	$ 11.2
Accounting Standards Update 2018-02 | Retained Earnings
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of new accounting principle adopted	$ 6.9
Subsequent Event | Accounting Standards Update 2016-02
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Additional right-of-use assets					$ 135

Acquisitions (Details)

Acquisitions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Feb. 01, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Gain on acquisition			$ 0	$ 6,221	$ 0
Other acquisitions			11,403	44,367	126,747
Goodwill		$ 1,540,032	1,567,169	1,610,355	1,540,032
Inventories			700,540	592,781
Acquisition and integration related costs			0	0	57,384
Sales de Magnesio Ltda.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Percentage of equity interests acquired	50.00%
Total purchase price	$ 8,300
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Other acquisitions		$ 145,000
Accounts receivable				600
Property, plant and equipment				24,100
Other intangibles				46,300
Accounts payable				2,800
Deferred tax liabilities				6,300
Fair value of net working capital				6,200
Inventories				37,100
Inventory markup				23,100
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life		17 years
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition and integration related costs					52,100
Other significant projects
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition and integration related costs					5,300
Patents and technology | Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life		20 years
Customer lists and relationships | Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life		13 years
Other | Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquired finite-lived intangible assets, weighted average useful life		20 years
Other expenses, net | Sales de Magnesio Ltda.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Gain on acquisition				6,200
Cost of sales
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition and integration related costs			3,700	14,300
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition and integration related costs			15,700	19,600
Reportable Segments | Lithium
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill		$ 1,326,980	$ 1,354,779	1,389,089	$ 1,326,980
Reportable Segments | Lithium | Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill				$ 83,100

Divestitures - Discontinued Ope

Divestitures - Discontinued Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)	$ 0	$ 0	$ 202,131
Chemetall Surface Treatment
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Net sales			813,285
Cost of goods sold			416,934
Operating expenses, net			268,402
Interest and financing expenses			38,227
Other income, net			(2,485)
Gain on sale of discontinued operations			(387,980)
Income before income taxes			480,187
Income tax expense			278,056
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)			202,131
Depreciation and amortization			35,194
Capital expenditures			$ 19,281

Divestitures - Additional Infor

Divestitures - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 14, 2016	Feb. 01, 2016	Jan. 04, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash proceeds from divestitures, net										$ 413,569	$ 6,857	$ 3,325,571
Gain on sales of businesses, net				$ (8,277)	$ 0	$ 218,705	$ 0			210,428	0	122,298
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss										(9,368)	(2,019)	(84,371)
Actuarial losses				$ 14,000				$ (11,400)
Assets held for sale, excluding discontinued operations
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash proceeds from divestitures, net										413,600
Gain on sales of businesses, net										210,400
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)
Gain on sale of business, net of tax												135,000
Working capital settlement									$ 6,900
Actuarial losses												(8,500)
Tax expense on gain on sale of business												253,000
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
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 loss										$ 0	$ 0	$ (81,421)

Divestitures Divestitures - Oth

Divestitures Divestitures - Other Assets and Liabilities Held for Sale (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash proceeds from divestitures, net	$ 413,569	$ 6,857	$ 3,325,571
Current assets	0	39,152
Net property, plant and equipment		215,900
Current liabilities	0	1,938
Assets held for sale, excluding discontinued operations
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash proceeds from divestitures, net	$ 413,600
Current assets		39,152
Net property, plant and equipment		121,759
Goodwill		14,422
Other intangibles, net of amortization		3,632
Assets held for sale		178,965
Current liabilities		1,938
Noncurrent liabilities		614
Liabilities held for sale		$ 2,552

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_3

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Income taxes (net of refunds of $21,459, $17,522 and $9,270 in 2018, 2017 and 2016, respectively)	$ 157,758	$ 320,222	$ 143,404
Income taxes, refunds	21,459	17,522	9,270
Interest (net of capitalization)	49,762	61,243	96,948
Capital expenditures included in Accounts payable	$ 134,784	$ 89,188	$ 33,622

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform_4

Supplemental Cash Flow Information Footnote (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items]
Transition tax on foreign earnings, current	$ 28.4
Transition tax on foreign earnings		$ 394.9
Foreign currency exchange rate losses	10.5	11.1	$ 40.8
Polyolefin Catalysts
Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items]
Income taxes paid from gain on sale	$ 41
Chemetall Surface Treatment
Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures [Line Items]
Income taxes paid from gain on sale		$ 257

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, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income from continuing operations	$ 146,049	$ 143,479	$ 310,686	$ 138,925	$ (207,071)	$ 130,193	$ 113,689	$ 62,657	$ 739,139	$ 99,468	$ 478,638
Net income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests									(45,577)	(44,618)	(37,094)
Net income from continuing operations attributable to Albemarle Corporation									$ 693,562	$ 54,850	$ 441,544
Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share (in shares)	106,042	107,315	109,671	110,681	110,510	110,476	110,686	111,986	108,427	110,914	112,379
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 1.22	$ 1.21	$ 2.76	$ 1.19	$ (1.98)	$ 1.07	$ 0.93	$ 0.46	$ 6.40	$ 0.49	$ 3.93
Incremental shares under stock compensation plans									1,031	1,466	860
Weighted-average common shares for diluted earnings per share (in shares)	107,005	108,302	110,659	111,867	112,152	111,975	112,105	113,289	109,458	112,380	113,239
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 1.21	$ 1.20	$ 2.73	$ 1.18	$ (1.95)	$ 1.06	$ 0.92	$ 0.45	$ 6.34	$ 0.49	$ 3.90

Earnings Per Share - Additional

Earnings Per Share - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 16, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Nov. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)			15,000,000
Payment for repurchase of common stock			$ 500,000	$ 250,000	$ 0
Shares available for repurchase (in shares)			7,396,263
Preferred shares issued			0
Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Payment for repurchase of common stock		$ 250,000	$ 250,000
Maximum
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
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)			8,400
Initial Delivery | Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Repurchase of common stock shares (in shares)		1,948,178
Final Settlement | Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Repurchase of common stock shares (in shares)	392,905
Total Delivery | Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Repurchase of common stock shares (in shares)			5,262,654	2,341,083
Total Delivery | May 2018 Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Repurchase of common stock shares (in shares)			2,680,704
Total Delivery | August 2018 Accelerated Share Repurchase Agreement
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Repurchase of common stock shares (in shares)			2,581,950
Common Stock
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share			123,730
Common stock repurchased					0

Other Accounts Receivable (Deta

Other Accounts Receivable (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Receivables [Abstract]
Value added tax/consumption tax	$ 40,480	$ 23,158
Other	11,579	14,779
Total	$ 52,059	$ 37,937

Inventories (Details)

Inventories (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Finished goods	$ 482,355	$ 404,239
Raw materials and work in process	158,290	132,891
Stores, supplies and other	59,895	55,651
Total inventories	$ 700,540	$ 592,781

Inventories - Additional Inform

Inventories - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Inventory [Line Items]
Inventories classified as assets held for sale		$ 24.7
Percentage of LIFO inventory	10.00%	17.00%
Inventories stated on LIFO basis	$ 69.2	$ 99.6
Excess of replacement costs over stated LIFO value	32.8	33.1
Lithium
Inventory [Line Items]
Work in process related to Lithium	$ 71.4	$ 59.6

Other Current Assets (Details)

Other Current Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Other Assets [Abstract]
Income tax receivables	$ 40,116	$ 47,130
Prepaid expenses	43,172	86,348
Other	1,502	2,586
Total	$ 84,790	$ 136,064

Property, Plant and Equipment_2

Property, Plant and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Land	$ 123,518	$ 118,428
Land improvements	63,349	63,328
Buildings and improvements	251,980	245,482
Machinery and equipment	2,780,478	2,627,667
Long-term mineral rights and production equipment costs	696,033	675,832
Construction in progress	883,705	393,598
Total	$ 4,799,063	$ 4,124,335

Property, Plant and Equipment_3

Property, Plant and Equipment (Footnote) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment classified as assets held for sale		$ 215.9
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	10 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, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation	$ 170	$ 169.5	$ 178.8
Interest capitalized on significant capital projects	$ 19.3	$ 7.4	6.8
Discontinued operations
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation			$ 8.9

Investments Investment Balances

Investments Investment Balances (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Investments [Abstract]
Joint ventures	$ 486,032	$ 499,756
Nonmarketable securities	9,177	3,655
Marketable equity securities	33,513	30,653
Total	$ 528,722	$ 534,064

Investments Ownership Positions

Investments Ownership Positions in Significant Unconsolidated (Details)	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Windfield Holdings
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	49.00%	49.00%	49.00%
Nippon Aluminum Alkyls
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Nippon Ketjen Company Limited
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Eurecat S.A.
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Fabrica Carioca de Catalisadores S.A.
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%

Investments Summary of Assets,

Investments Summary of Assets, Liabilities and Results of Operations for Significant Unconsolidated Joint Ventures (Details) - Significant Unconsolidated Joint Ventures - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Current assets	$ 476,460	$ 503,043
Noncurrent assets	1,159,866	1,041,519
Total assets	1,636,326	1,544,562
Current liabilities	191,971	133,670
Noncurrent liabilities	422,769	405,662
Total liabilities	614,740	539,332
Net sales	829,590	687,561	$ 590,980
Gross profit	456,518	353,577	267,241
Income before income taxes	332,632	267,805	189,016
Net income	$ 225,791	$ 184,777	$ 126,872

Investments Additional Informat

Investments Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)		$ 89,264	$ 84,487	$ 59,637
Dividends received from unconsolidated investments		57,415	39,386	43,759
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures exceeded the amount of underlying equity in net assets		400	13,800
Excess amount paid for joint ventures remaining to be amortized		100	400
Termination of Tianqi Lithium Corporation option agreement	$ 13,100		0
Marketable equity securities		33,513	30,653
Significant Unconsolidated Joint Venture
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Investment in significant unconsolidated joint ventures		466,100	479,100
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)		88,800	86,800	56,800
Undistributed earnings from equity method investees		159,900	127,500
Dividends received from unconsolidated investments		$ 56,400	$ 38,100	$ 42,100
Windfield Holdings
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage		49.00%	49.00%	49.00%
Rockwood Lithium GmbH
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	100.00%
Benefit Protection Trust
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Marketable equity securities		$ 26,300	$ 25,500
Windfield Holdings
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage		49.00%
Carrying value of unconsolidated investment		$ 349,600	355,200
Other Variable Interest Entities Excluding Windfield Holdings
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Carrying value of unconsolidated investment		$ 8,100	$ 8,700
Jordan Bromine Company Limited
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage		50.00%
Minimum | Rockwood Lithium GmbH
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage		20.00%
Maximum | Rockwood Lithium GmbH
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage		30.00%

Other Assets (Details)

Other Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Deferred income taxes	$ 17,029	$ 25,108
Assets related to unrecognized tax benefits	12,984	14,601
Other	50,122	34,455
Total	80,135	74,164
Note receivable reserve	$ 28,700	$ 28,700

Goodwill and Other Intangible_2

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Changes in Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	$ 1,610,355	$ 1,540,032
Reclass to assets held for sale		(14,422)
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	(43,186)	110,896
Goodwill, Ending Balance	1,567,169	1,610,355
All Other
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	6,586	6,586
Reclass to assets held for sale		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	0	0
Goodwill, Ending Balance	6,586	6,586
Reportable Segments | Lithium
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	1,389,089	1,326,980
Reclass to assets held for sale		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	(34,310)	88,260
Goodwill, Ending Balance	1,354,779	1,389,089
Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	20,319	20,319
Reclass to assets held for sale		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	0	0
Goodwill, Ending Balance	20,319	20,319
Reportable Segments | Catalysts
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	194,361	186,147
Reclass to assets held for sale		(14,422)
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	(8,876)	22,636
Goodwill, Ending Balance	185,485	194,361
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd.
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		(26,151)
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. | All Other
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		0
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. | Reportable Segments | Lithium
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	$ 83,100
Acquisitions		(26,151)
Goodwill, Ending Balance		83,100
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. | Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		0
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. | Reportable Segments | Catalysts
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		$ 0

Goodwill and Other Intangible_3

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Other Intangibles (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance	$ 557,167	$ 461,685
Reclass to assets held for sale		(4,228)
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	(10,833)	39,828
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance	546,334	557,167	$ 461,685
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance	(135,664)	(107,121)
Amortization	(27,979)	(25,079)	(19,000)
Reclass to assets held for sale		596
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	3,452	(4,060)
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance	(160,191)	(135,664)	(107,121)
Net Book Value	386,143	421,503
Customer lists and relationships
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance	439,312	387,893
Reclass to assets held for sale		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	(10,940)	32,194
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance	428,372	439,312	387,893
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance	(74,704)	(49,165)
Amortization	(23,402)	(21,288)
Reclass to assets held for sale		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	2,309	(4,251)
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance	(95,797)	(74,704)	(49,165)
Net Book Value	332,575	364,608
Trademarks and Trade Names
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance	18,981	16,514
Reclass to assets held for sale		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	(528)	1,038
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance	18,453	18,981	16,514
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance	(8,295)	(7,952)
Amortization	0	0
Reclass to assets held for sale		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	119	(343)
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance	(8,176)	(8,295)	(7,952)
Net Book Value	10,277	10,686
Patents and technology
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance	61,618	38,434
Reclass to assets held for sale		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	(5,817)	2,803
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance	55,801	61,618	38,434
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance	(35,203)	(31,683)
Amortization	(1,450)	(1,412)
Reclass to assets held for sale		0
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	1,405	(2,108)
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance	(35,248)	(35,203)	(31,683)
Net Book Value	20,553	26,415
Other
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Gross Asset Value, Beginning Balance	37,256	18,844
Reclass to assets held for sale		(4,228)
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	6,452	3,793
Gross Asset Value, Ending Balance	43,708	37,256	18,844
Accumulated Amortization, Beginning Balance	(17,462)	(18,321)
Amortization	(3,127)	(2,379)
Reclass to assets held for sale		596
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	(381)	2,642
Accumulated Amortization, Ending Balance	(20,970)	(17,462)	$ (18,321)
Net Book Value	$ 22,738	19,794
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd.
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		59,882
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. | Customer lists and relationships
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		19,225
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. | Trademarks and Trade Names
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		1,429
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. | Patents and technology
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		20,381
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd. | Other
Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		$ 18,847

Goodwill and Other Intangible_4

Goodwill and Other Intangibles - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets	$ 27,979	$ 25,079	$ 19,000
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	$ 23,402	21,288
Customer lists and relationships | Minimum
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	13 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	$ 1,450	1,412
Patents and technology | Minimum
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, useful life	8 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	$ 3,127	2,379
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	25 years
Amortized using the pattern of economic benefit method
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets	$ 19,700	$ 17,700	15,900
Discontinued operations
Other Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of other intangible assets			$ 26,300

Goodwill and Other Intangible_5

Goodwill and Other Intangibles Total Estimated Amortization Expense of Other Intangibles for Next Five Fiscal Years (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
2,019	$ 27,219
2,020	24,878
2,021	24,600
2,022	24,006
2,023	$ 23,395

Accrued Expenses (Details)

Accrued Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Employee benefits, payroll and related taxes	$ 77,814	$ 93,393
Other	179,509	174,943
Total	$ 257,323	$ 268,336

Accrued Expenses Accrued Expens

Accrued Expenses Accrued Expenses Footnote (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
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, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	$ 1,705,210	$ 1,837,372
Current portion of long-term debt	307,294	422,012
Long-term debt	1,397,916	1,415,360
Senior Notes | 1.875% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	444,155	463,575
Senior Notes | 4.15% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	422,116	421,628
Senior Notes | 4.50% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	174,626	174,325
Senior Notes | 5.45% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	345,996	345,841
Commercial Paper
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	306,606	421,321
Variable-rate foreign bank loans
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	7,216	5,298
Other long-term debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total long-term debt	$ 4,495	$ 5,384

Long-Term Debt Interest Rates (

Long-Term Debt Interest Rates (Details) $ in Thousands, € in Millions	2 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 18, 2014	Dec. 08, 2014	Nov. 24, 2014	Dec. 10, 2010
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt				$ 0	$ 778,209	$ 1,252,302
September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt						$ 1,250,000
1.875% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs				$ 2,841	$ 3,971
Debt instrument, interest rate		1.875%	1.875%	1.875%	1.875%		1.875%	1.875%
3.00% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs				$ 0	$ 0
Debt instrument, interest rate		3.00%	3.00%	3.00%	3.00%				3.00%
4.15% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs				$ 2,884	$ 3,372
Debt instrument, interest rate				4.15%	4.15%				4.15%
4.50% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs				$ 589	$ 891
Debt instrument, interest rate		4.50%	4.50%	4.50%	4.50%					4.50%
5.45% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs				$ 4,004	$ 4,159
Debt instrument, interest rate				5.45%	5.45%				5.45%
Senior Notes | 1.875% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt | €			€ 307
Senior Notes | 3.00% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt	$ 250,000
Senior Notes | 4.50% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt		$ 174,700

Long-Term Debt - Additional Inf

Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands, € in Millions	Jun. 21, 2018USD ($)	Oct. 15, 2014USD ($)	Feb. 28, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 14, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 22, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 18, 2014	Dec. 08, 2014EUR (€)	Nov. 24, 2014USD ($)	Jan. 22, 2014USD ($)payment	May 29, 2013USD ($)	Dec. 10, 2010USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2019						$ 307,300
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2020						175,300
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2021						447,000
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2022						0
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, 2023						7,200
Aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt, thereafter						778,700
Repayments of long-term debt						0	$ 778,209	$ 1,252,302
Repayments of debt premium				$ 45,200
Loss on early extinguishment of debt						0	$ 52,801	1,921
Interest rate cash flow hedge gain (loss) to be reclassified during next 12 months						3,300
Revolving credit facility, remaining borrowings available						$ 693,400
September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt									$ 1,250,000
Repayments of long-term debt								1,250,000
1.875% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt | €												€ 700
Debt instrument, interest rate				1.875%	1.875%	1.875%	1.875%				1.875%	1.875%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage												2.10%
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, before tax						$ 25,800	$ (41,800)	$ 26,100
3.00% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt													$ 250,000
Debt instrument, interest rate				3.00%	3.00%	3.00%	3.00%						3.00%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage													3.18%
4.15% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt													$ 425,000
Debt instrument, interest rate						4.15%	4.15%						4.15%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage													5.06%
Number of semi annual coupon payments | payment														20
4.50% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt																$ 350,000
Debt instrument, interest rate				4.50%	4.50%	4.50%	4.50%									4.50%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage																4.70%
5.45% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Principal amount of debt													$ 350,000
Debt instrument, interest rate						5.45%	5.45%						5.45%
Interest rate of debt, effective percentage													5.50%
Commercial Paper
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt						$ 114,700
Commercial paper notes						$ 306,600
Weighted-average interest rate						2.91%
Debt instrument weighted average maturity period						38 days
Line of Credit
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Revolving credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity						$ 263,000
Borrowings outstanding under credit facility						$ 7,200	$ 5,300
Average interest rate on borrowings						0.69%	1.26%	0.94%
Domestic Financial Institution Agreement [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Borrowings outstanding under credit facility						$ 0	$ 0
Foreign Credit Line U S Dollar Euro Denominated Borrowings [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Borrowings outstanding under credit facility						0	0
Other Foreign Credit Lines [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Borrowings outstanding under credit facility						$ 0	$ 0
Maximum | Commercial Paper
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Commercial paper notes															$ 750,000
Debt instrument, maturity term						397 days
Revolving Credit Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin						1.125%
Revolving credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity	$ 1,000,000									$ 1,000,000
Debt covenant ratio, maximum debt to EBITDA	3.50
Debt covenant	50000000000.00%
Revolving Credit Facility | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin	0.91%
Revolving Credit Facility | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin	1.50%
Interest Rate Swap | JP Morgan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount														$ 325,000
Payment for settlement of interest rate swap		$ 33,400
Senior Notes | 1.875% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt | €					€ 307
Senior Notes | 3.00% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt			$ 250,000
Senior Notes | 4.50% Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of long-term debt				$ 174,700
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | September 2015 Term Loan Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate margin						1.375%

Pension Plans and Other Postr_3

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, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Pension Plans
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance	$ 659,874
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance	583,659	$ 659,874
Other Postretirement Benefits
Change in benefit obligations:
Benefit obligation, beginning balance	56,647	56,141
Service cost	117	121	$ 115
Interest cost	2,168	2,340	2,483
Actuarial (gain) loss	(5,661)	2,008
Benefits paid	(2,881)	(3,963)
Benefit obligation, ending balance	50,390	56,647	56,141
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance	834	2,232
Actual return on plan assets	(253)	104
Employer contributions	2,300	2,461
Benefits paid	(2,881)	(3,963)
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance	0	834	2,232
Funded status	(50,390)	(55,813)
Current liabilities (accrued expenses)	(4,233)	(3,810)
Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits)	(46,157)	(52,003)
Net pension liability	(50,390)	(55,813)
Prior service benefit	0	48
Net amount recognized	$ 0	$ 48
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31:
Discount rate	4.55%	3.99%
Rate of compensation increase	3.50%	3.50%
U.S. Plans | Pension Plans
Change in benefit obligations:
Benefit obligation, beginning balance	$ 685,963	$ 665,688
Service cost	1,043	985	1,028
Interest cost	26,804	28,614	30,514
Plan amendments	0	0
Actuarial (gain) loss	(36,844)	30,539
Benefits paid	(41,100)	(39,863)
Employee contributions	0	0
Foreign exchange (gain) loss	0	0
Settlements/curtailments	0	0
Other	0	0
Benefit obligation, ending balance	635,866	685,963	665,688
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance	580,396	538,082
Actual return on plan assets	(28,457)	80,613
Employer contributions	2,236	1,564
Benefits paid	(41,100)	(39,863)
Employee contributions	0	0
Foreign exchange (loss) gain	0	0
Settlements/curtailments	0	0
Other	0	0
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance	513,075	580,396	$ 538,082
Funded status	(122,791)	(105,567)
Current liabilities (accrued expenses)	(1,342)	(1,267)
Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits)	(121,449)	(104,300)
Net pension liability	(122,791)	(105,567)
Prior service benefit	0	(60)
Net amount recognized	$ 0	$ (60)
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31:
Discount rate	4.59%	4.03%	4.43%	4.67%
Rate of compensation increase	0.00%	0.00%
Foreign Plans | Pension Plans
Change in benefit obligations:
Benefit obligation, beginning balance	$ 275,006	$ 246,280
Service cost	3,919	2,547	$ 3,133
Interest cost	5,144	5,128	6,570
Plan amendments	233	0
Actuarial (gain) loss	(17,885)	2,783
Benefits paid	(9,974)	(9,524)
Employee contributions	182	215
Foreign exchange (gain) loss	(12,632)	30,711
Settlements/curtailments	(3,628)	(3,065)
Other	(62)	(69)
Benefit obligation, ending balance	240,303	275,006	246,280
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets, beginning balance	79,478	68,875
Actual return on plan assets	(1,593)	6,260
Employer contributions	10,700	9,316
Benefits paid	(9,974)	(9,524)
Employee contributions	182	215
Foreign exchange (loss) gain	(4,519)	7,470
Settlements/curtailments	(3,628)	(3,065)
Other	(62)	(69)
Fair value of plan assets, Ending Balance	70,584	79,478	$ 68,875
Funded status	(169,719)	(195,528)
Current liabilities (accrued expenses)	(5,772)	(5,217)
Noncurrent liabilities (pension benefits)	(163,947)	(190,311)
Net pension liability	(169,719)	(195,528)
Prior service benefit	(409)	(269)
Net amount recognized	$ (409)	$ (269)
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31:
Discount rate	2.15%	1.94%	2.00%	2.76%
Rate of compensation increase	3.63%	3.18%

Pension Plans and Other Postr_4

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Components of Pension and Postretirement Benefits Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jan. 01, 2018	Jan. 01, 2017	Jan. 01, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Expected return on plan assets	6.73%	6.73%	6.85%
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost				$ 117	$ 121	$ 115
Interest cost				2,168	2,340	2,483
Expected return on assets				(7)	(110)	(187)
Actuarial loss (gain)				(5,400)	2,014	1,275
Amortization of prior service benefit				(48)	(95)	(95)
Total net pension benefits cost (credit)				$ (3,170)	$ 4,270	$ 3,591
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Discount rate				3.99%	4.35%	4.59%
Discount rate				4.55%	3.99%
Expected return on plan assets				7.00%	7.00%	7.00%
Rate of compensation increase				3.50%	3.50%	3.50%
Pension Plans
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Net pension or postretirement benefits credit						$ 10,800
U.S. Plans | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost				$ 1,043	$ 985	1,028
Interest cost				26,804	28,614	30,514
Expected return on assets				(38,621)	(36,243)	(36,445)
Actuarial loss (gain)				30,234	(13,910)	5,988
Amortization of prior service benefit				60	75	75
Total net pension benefits cost (credit)				$ 19,520	$ (20,479)	$ 1,160
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Discount rate						4.67%
Discount rate				4.59%	4.03%	4.43%	4.67%
Expected return on plan assets				6.89%	6.89%	6.89%
Rate of compensation increase				0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Foreign Plans | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost				$ 3,919	$ 2,547	$ 3,133
Interest cost				5,144	5,128	6,570
Expected return on assets				(4,204)	(4,441)	(4,027)
Actuarial loss (gain)				(10,833)	483	19,418
Amortization of prior service benefit				34	56	859
Total net pension benefits cost (credit)				$ (5,940)	$ 3,773	$ 25,953
Weighted-average assumption percentages:
Discount rate						2.76%
Discount rate				2.15%	1.94%	2.00%	2.76%
Expected return on plan assets				5.52%	6.16%	6.66%
Rate of compensation increase				3.18%	3.18%	3.16%

Pension Plans and Other Postr_5

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Financial Assets Accounted for at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	$ 583,659	$ 659,874
Pension Plans | Domestic Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	113,355	163,160
Pension Plans | International Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	114,554	130,935
Pension Plans | Fixed income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	254,437	269,365
Pension Plans | Cash
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	29,326
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	834	$ 2,232
Other Postretirement Benefits | Fixed income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		834
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	450,766	493,848
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Pension Plans | Domestic Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	111,665	160,976
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Pension Plans | International Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	90,651	101,366
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Pension Plans | Fixed income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	219,124	231,506
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Items (Level 1) | Pension Plans | Cash
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	29,326
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
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	60,906	69,612
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Pension Plans | Domestic Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	1,690	2,184
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Pension Plans | International Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	23,903	29,569
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Pension Plans | Fixed income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	35,313	37,859
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Similar Items (Level 2) | Pension Plans | Cash
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0
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		834
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Pension Plans | Domestic Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Pension Plans | International Equity
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Pension Plans | Fixed income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0	0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Pension Plans | Cash
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	0
Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Other Postretirement Benefits | Fixed income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets		0
Absolute Return Measured at Net Asset Value | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets	$ 71,987	$ 96,414

Pension Plans and Other Postr_6

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Defined Benefit Plan Asset Target Allocation (Details) - Pension Plans	Dec. 31, 2018
Equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocations percentage of assets	43.00%
Fixed income
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocations percentage of assets	44.00%
Absolute return
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target allocations percentage of assets	13.00%

Pension Plans and Other Postr_7

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Current Forecast of Benefit Payments which Reflect Expected Future Service (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,019	$ 4.2
2,020	4
2,021	3.8
2,022	3.8
2,023	3.7
2024-2028	17.4
U.S. Plans | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,019	42
2,020	43
2,021	43.5
2,022	43.9
2,023	44.3
2024-2028	220.6
Foreign Plans | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2,019	12.9
2,020	9.4
2,021	9.7
2,022	9.2
2,023	12.1
2024-2028	$ 52.1

Pension Plans and Other Postr_8

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jan. 01, 2019	Jan. 01, 2018	Jan. 01, 2017	Jan. 01, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation for defined benefit pension plans					$ 867,400	$ 949,000
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets		6.73%	6.73%	6.85%
Actual rate of return					(4.55%)	14.31%	8.11%
Percentage of defined benefit plan assets in U.S. and U.K.					97.00%
Change in percentage of broad asset class targets					10.00%
Pension and postretirement contributions					$ 15,236	$ 13,341	$ 20,068
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%
Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected contributions to benefit plans in 2019					$ 12,000
Other Postretirement Benefits
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets					7.00%	7.00%	7.00%
Discount rate					4.55%	3.99%
Expected premium contribution					$ 4,000
Projected benefit obligation recognized					50,390	$ 56,647	$ 56,141
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected contributions to benefit plans in 2019					1,300
Costs (credits) related to supplemental executive retirement plan					(800)	2,600	$ 1,600
Projected benefit obligation recognized					$ 21,900	$ 24,800
Foreign Plans | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets					5.52%	6.16%	6.66%
Discount rate					2.15%	1.94%	2.00%	2.76%
Projected benefit obligation recognized					$ 240,303	$ 275,006	$ 246,280
Foreign Plans | Employee Savings Plan | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan, employer contributions					$ 10,200	$ 9,900	$ 9,500
Foreign Plans | Subsequent Event | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets	5.69%
U.S. Plans | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets					6.89%	6.89%	6.89%
Discount rate					4.59%	4.03%	4.43%	4.67%
Projected benefit obligation recognized					$ 635,866	$ 685,963	$ 665,688
Defined contribution plan, employer matching contribution percentage					5.00%
U.S. Plans | 2004 Defined Contribution Plan | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan, employer contributions					$ 11,800	10,300	15,100
U.S. Plans | Employee Savings Plan | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan, employer contributions					$ 12,700	$ 11,300	$ 12,700
U.S. Plans | Subsequent Event | Pension Plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted-average expected rate of return on plan assets	6.89%

Pension Plans and Other Postr_9

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits New Accounting Standard (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cost of goods sold	$ 2,157,694	$ 1,965,700	$ 1,706,897
Selling, general and administrative expenses	446,090	450,286	353,765
Other expenses, net	$ (64,434)	(9,512)	(20,535)
Accounting Standards Update 2017-07
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cost of goods sold		(3,700)	(300)
Selling, general and administrative expenses		(12,400)	(26,700)
Other expenses, net		$ 16,100	$ (26,400)

Pension Plans and Other Post_10

Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits Multiemployer Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Multiemployer plan minimum level of funding for highest funding zone status	80.00%
Multiemployer plan, period contributions	$ 1.5	$ 1.5	$ 1.7
Minimum
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Contributions to multiemployer plan, percentage of total contributions to plan	5.00%
Financial Improvement Plan | Selling, general and administrative expenses
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Multiemployer plan, period contributions	$ 2.3	$ 3.3
Chemetall Surface Treatment
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Multiemployer plan, period contributions			$ 1.3

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (D

Other Noncurrent Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Transition tax on foreign earnings	$ 317,745	$ 394,878
Liabilities related to uncertain tax positions	22,877	24,369
Executive deferred compensation plan obligation	26,292	25,494
Environmental liabilities	40,376	37,518	$ 32,595
Asset retirement obligations	41,489	40,450
Tax indemnification liability	45,347	42,707
Other	32,816	33,758
Total	$ 526,942	$ 599,174

Other Noncurrent Liabilities Fo

Other Noncurrent Liabilities Footnote (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Total liabilities
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Benchmark for individual components of noncurrent liabilities, percentage	5.00%

Commitments and Contingencies A

Commitments and Contingencies Activity in Recorded Environmental Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of year	$ 39,808	$ 34,919	$ 31,436
Expenditures	(6,885)	(1,818)	(2,667)
Accretion of discount	1,283	896	793
Additions and changes in estimates	17,039	3,344	4,004
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	(1,676)	2,467	1,353
Balance, end of year	$ 39,808	$ 34,919	$ 31,436	$ 49,569	$ 39,808	$ 34,919
Less amounts recorded in Accrued expenses				9,193	2,290	2,324
Amounts reported in Other noncurrent liabilities				$ 40,376	$ 37,518	$ 32,595

Commitments and Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies Activity in Recorded Asset Retirement Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018
Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward]
Balance, beginning of year	$ 40,450	$ 36,296
Additions and changes in estimates	740	3,859
Accretion of discount	1,500	1,532
Liabilities settled	(786)	(789)
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other	(415)	(448)
Balance, end of year	$ 40,450	$ 36,296	$ 41,489

Commitments and Contingencies F

Commitments and Contingencies Future Non-Cancelable Minimum Lease Payments for Next Five Years and Thereafter (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Minimum Operating Lease Payments
2,019	$ 25,608
2,020	17,918
2,021	12,478
2,022	10,794
2,023	10,109
Thereafter	$ 87,085

Commitments and Contingencies L

Commitments and Contingencies Letters of Credit and Guarantee Agreements (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
2,019	$ 45,342
2,020	12,924
2,021	1,883
2,022	1,277
2,023	0
Thereafter	$ 10,389

Commitments and Contingencies -

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Environmental remediation liabilities- discounted	$ 40.4	$ 28.1
Accrual for environmental loss contingencies- weighted-average discount rate	3.70%	3.60%
Environmental remediation liabilities- undiscounted	$ 74.5	$ 68.2
Rental expense	37.6	$ 31.2	$ 31.4
Discontinued operations
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Rental expense			$ 11.8
Minimum
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Potential revision on future environmental remediation costs before tax	10
Maximum
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Potential revision on future environmental remediation costs before tax	35
2014 Sales Contract | Other expenses, net
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Legal accrual	16.2
Guarantee From Previously Disposed Business | Other expenses, net
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]
Legal accrual	$ 10.8

Stock-based Compensation Expe_3

Stock-based Compensation Expense Fixed-Price Stock Options (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Shares
Outstanding Shares,Beginning Balance (in shares)	1,401,718
Granted (in shares)	63,259	82,204	141,661
Exercised (in shares)	(94,031)
Forfeited (in shares)	(54,213)
Outstanding Shares, Ending Balance (in shares)	1,316,733	1,401,718
Exercisable, Ending Balance (in shares)	911,011
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Outstanding Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance (in dollars per share)	$ 56.10
Granted (in dollars per share)	118.75
Exercised (in dollars per share)	38.64
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	75.72
Outstanding Weighted-Average Exercise (in dollars per share)Price, Ending Balance	59.55	$ 56.10
Exercisable Weighted-Average Exercise Price, Ending Balance (in dollars per share)	$ 54.28
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)
Weighted-Averaged Remaining Contractual Term, Beginning Balance	4 years 4 months	5 years 1 month
Weighted-Averaged Remaining Contractual Term, Ending Balance	4 years 4 months	5 years 1 month
Exercisable Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term, Ending Balance	3 years 2 months 3 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Beginning Balance	$ 100,632
Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Ending Balance	26,438	$ 100,632
Exercisable Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Ending Balance	$ 20,872

Stock-based Compensation Expe_4

Stock-based Compensation Expense Weighted-Average Assumptions used to Estimate Fair Value of Each Option Granted (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Employee Stock Option
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Dividend yield	1.44%	1.56%	1.84%
Volatility	32.48%	32.70%	33.08%
Average expected life (years)	6 years	6 years	6 years
Risk-free interest rate	3.06%	2.51%	1.96%
Fair value of options granted (in dollars per share)	$ 37.35	$ 27.99	$ 16.06
Performance Unit Awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Volatility	29.92%	30.34%	27.69%
Risk-free interest rate	2.36%	1.34%	0.91%

Stock-based Compensation Expe_5

Stock-based Compensation Expense Activity in Performance Unit Awards (Details) - Performance Unit Awards	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018$ / sharesshares
Shares
Nonvested, beginning of period (in shares) | shares	433,003
Granted (in shares) | shares	70,274
Vested (in shares) | shares	(164,303)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares	(21,537)
Nonvested, end of period (in shares) | shares	317,437
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested, beginning of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 75.55
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	155.65
Vested (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	61.72
Forfeited (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	120.49
Nonvested, end of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 97.39

Stock-based Compensation Expe_6

Stock-based Compensation Expense Activity in Non-Performance Based Restricted Stock Awards (Details) - Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018$ / sharesshares
Shares
Nonvested, beginning of period (in shares) | shares	223,338
Granted (in shares) | shares	104,513
Vested (in shares) | shares	(48,178)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares	(22,155)
Nonvested, end of period (in shares) | shares	257,518
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested, beginning of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 71.95
Granted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	104.36
Vested (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	66.93
Forfeited (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	78.98
Nonvested, end of period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 85.44

Stock-based Compensation Expe_7

Stock-based Compensation Expense - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Stock options granted during the period (in shares)	63,259	82,204	141,661
Common stock authorized for non-employee directors (in shares)	150,000,000	150,000,000
Stock-based compensation	$ 15,228,000	$ 19,404,000	$ 17,031,000
Tax benefits recognized related to stock based compensation	2,600,000	7,000,000	6,200,000
Proceeds from stock option exercised	$ 3,633,000	8,238,000	9,401,000
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
Stock Incentive Plan Twenty Seventeen
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Shares available for grant (in shares)	4,280,607
Stock Incentive Plan Twenty Seventeen | Maximum
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Number of shares available for issuance under incentive plan (in shares)	4,500,000
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)	388,179
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	$ 6,200,000	15,600,000	7,900,000
Compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested share	$ 3,000,000
Remaining weighted average period for recognition of compensation cost years	1 year 6 months 14 days
Proceeds from stock option exercised	$ 3,600,000
Tax benefit from stock option exercised	1,500,000
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested share	$ 12,600,000
Remaining weighted average period for recognition of compensation cost years	1 year 362 days
Weighted average grant date fair value	$ 10,900,000	8,200,000	8,800,000
Weighted average fair value of awards vested in period	$ 4,900,000	3,100,000	3,200,000
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units | Minimum
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based awards vesting period	1 year
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units | Maximum
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Share-based awards vesting period	5 years
Performance Unit Awards
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Compensation cost not yet recognized for nonvested share	$ 11,600,000
Remaining weighted average period for recognition of compensation cost years	1 year
Weighted average grant date fair value	$ 10,900,000	9,600,000	10,900,000
Weighted average fair value of awards vested in period	$ 20,000,000	$ 11,900,000	4,600,000
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
Accrued Liabilities | Chemetall Surface Treatment
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation	$ 2,200,000
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | Chemetall Surface Treatment
Share Based Compensation [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation	$ 1,200,000

Accumulated Other Comprehensi_3

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, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Jan. 01, 2018
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 3,817,696	$ 3,942,604	$ 3,401,313
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	(134,563)	185,612	(76,113)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss(d)	9,368	2,019	84,371
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(125,195)	187,631	8,258
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	181	(887)	618
Ending balance	3,759,108	3,817,696	3,942,604
Retained Earnings
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	2,035,163	2,121,931	1,615,407
Ending balance	2,566,050	2,035,163	2,121,931
Foreign Currency Translation
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(257,569)	(484,121)	(463,914)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	(150,258)	227,439	(102,246)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss(d)	0	0	81,421
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(150,258)	227,439	(20,825)
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	181	(887)	618
Ending balance	(407,646)	(257,569)	(484,121)
Pension and Postretirement Benefits
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(21)	76	(758)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	0	0	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss(d)	(138)	(97)	834
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(138)	(97)	834
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	0
Ending balance	(159)	(21)	76
Net Investment Hedge
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	46,551	88,378	62,245
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	15,695	(41,827)	26,133
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss(d)	10,091	0	0
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	25,786	(41,827)	26,133
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	0
Ending balance	72,337	46,551	88,378
Interest Rate Swap
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(14,629)	(16,745)	(18,861)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	0	0	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss(d)	(585)	2,116	2,116
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(585)	2,116	2,116
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	0	0	0
Ending balance	(15,214)	(14,629)	(16,745)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(225,668)	(412,412)	(421,288)
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(125,014)	186,744	8,876
Ending balance	$ (350,682)	$ (225,668)	$ (412,412)
Accounting Standards Update 2018-02 | Retained Earnings
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Cumulative effect of new accounting principle adopted				$ 6,900

Accumulated Other Comprehensi_4

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, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation, Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax	$ (150,262)	$ 228,508	$ (20,849)
Foreign currency translation, Income tax (expense) benefit	4	(1,069)	24
Foreign currency translation, Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(150,258)	227,439	(20,825)
Pension and other postretirement benefits, Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax	(128)	(96)	839
Pension and other postretirement benefits, Income tax expense	(10)	(1)	(5)
Pension and other postretirement benefits, Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(138)	(97)	834
Net investment hedge, Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax	20,424	(65,958)	41,209
Net investment hedge, Income tax benefit (expense)	5,362	24,131	(15,076)
Net investment hedge, Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	25,786	(41,827)	26,133
Interest rate swap, Other comprehensive income, before tax	3,336	3,336	3,336
Interest rate swap, Income tax expense	(3,921)	(1,220)	(1,220)
Interest rate swap, Other comprehensive income, net of tax	$ (585)	$ 2,116	$ 2,116

Income Taxes Components of Inco

Income Taxes Components of Income Tax Expense Benefit (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments:
Domestic	$ 223,702	$ (8,293)	$ 49,630
Foreign	570,999	455,091	465,634
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments	794,701	446,798	515,264
Current income tax expense (benefit):
Federal	(2,712)	394,747	7,717
State	6,793	323	1,407
Foreign	91,581	78,688	63,957
Total	95,662	473,758	73,081
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense:
Federal	15,573	(58,640)	12,230
State	1,614	(2,288)	(1,715)
Foreign	31,977	18,987	12,667
Total	49,164	(41,941)	23,182
Total income tax expense	$ 144,826	$ 431,817	$ 96,263

Income Taxes Significant Differ

Income Taxes Significant Differences Between U.S. Federal Statutory Rate and Effective Income Tax Rate (Detail)	Jan. 01, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal statutory rate	21.00%	21.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State taxes, net of federal tax benefit		0.90%	(0.50%)	(0.10%)
Change in valuation allowance		0.70%	(1.40%)	3.70%
Impact of foreign earnings, net		(0.30%)	(13.50%)	(19.30%)
Global intangible low tax inclusion		0.80%	0.00%	0.00%
Change in U.S. federal statutory rate		0.10%	(14.00%)	0.00%
Transition tax on deferred foreign earnings		(5.30%)	96.10%	0.00%
Subpart F income		0.90%	2.00%	0.20%
Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries		0.00%	(2.20%)	0.10%
Stock-based compensation		(0.70%)	(1.90%)	0.00%
Depletion		(0.60%)	(1.40%)	(1.00%)
Revaluation of unrecognized tax benefits/reserve requirements		0.00%	(0.70%)	(0.40%)
Domestic manufacturing tax deduction		(0.00%)	(0.00%)	(0.90%)
Other items, net		0.70%	(0.90%)	1.40%
Effective income tax rate		18.20%	96.60%	18.70%

Income Taxes Significant Diff_2

Income Taxes Significant Differences Between U.S. Federal Statutory Rate and Effective Income Tax Rate Footnote (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jan. 01, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items
Foreign income tax rate differential		0.30%	13.50%	19.30%
Income tax expense related to remeasurement of deferred tax balances		$ (0.4)	$ 62.3
Reduction in federal statutory rate	21.00%	21.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Income tax expense related to transition tax on foreign earnings		$ 42.3	$ 429.2
Jordan Bromine Company Limited
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items
Foreign income tax rate differential		3.30%	8.90%	7.30%
Change in valuation allowance, foreign restructuring plan [Member]
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items
Change in valuation allowance		$ 8.2	$ 10.9
Change in valuation allowance, change in expected profitability [Member]
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items
Change in valuation allowance		$ 1.5

Income Taxes Deferred Income Ta

Income Taxes Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities Recorded on Consolidated Balance Sheets (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Deferred tax assets:
Accrued employee benefits	$ 18,462	$ 21,463
Operating loss carryovers(a)	1,210,377	459,644
Pensions	61,308	64,799
Tax credit carryovers	1,270	11,634
Other	35,895	44,714
Gross deferred tax assets	1,327,312	602,254
Valuation allowance(a)	(1,213,750)	(458,288)	$ (69,900)	$ (84,137)
Deferred tax assets	113,562	143,966
Deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation	(337,503)	(334,162)
Intangibles	(88,871)	(113,792)
Hedge of net investment of foreign subsidiary	(21,854)	(17,028)
Other	(31,287)	(24,265)
Deferred tax liabilities	(479,515)	(489,247)
Noncurrent deferred tax assets	17,029	25,108
Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities	(382,982)	(370,389)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net	$ (365,953)	$ (345,281)

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, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ (458,288)	$ (69,900)	$ (84,137)
Additions	(766,012)	(408,252)	(20,568)
Deductions	10,550	19,864	34,805
Ending Balance	$ (1,213,750)	$ (458,288)	$ (69,900)

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, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 21,438	$ 25,384	$ 95,715
Divestitures	0	0	(55,881)
Additions for tax positions related to prior years	874	0	548
Reductions for tax positions related to prior years	0	(1,933)	(1,253)
Additions for tax positions related to current year	1,091	1,132	1,271
Lapses in statutes of limitations/settlements	(3,578)	(4,198)	(12,591)
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(83)	1,053	(2,425)
Ending Balance	$ 19,742	$ 21,438	$ 25,384

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jan. 01, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Reduction in federal statutory rate	21.00%	21.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Income tax expense related to remeasurement of deferred tax balances		$ 400	$ (62,300)
Income tax expense related to transition tax on foreign earnings		42,300	429,200
Income tax expense for excess executive employee remuneration not grandfathered		2,100
Income tax expense for global intangible low-taxed income		6,400
Income tax expense for excess executive employee remuneration		4,100
Increase in valuation allowance		766,012	408,252	$ 20,568
Tax credit carryovers		1,270	11,634
Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset		1,213,750	458,288	69,900	$ 84,137
Cumulative undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries		505,600
Liabilities related to uncertain tax position		22,877	24,369
Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties and interest accrued		3,200	2,900
Assets offsetting unrecognized tax benefits		13,000	14,600
Unrecognized tax benefits net of offsetting assets		6,700	6,900
Unrecognized tax benefits		19,742	$ 21,438	$ 25,384	$ 95,715
Decrease in liability related to uncertain tax positions		4,400
Domestic Country
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Tax credit carryovers		1,300
Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset		300
Net operating loss carryovers		152,700
Operating loss carryover, valuation allowance		58,300
State and Local Jurisdiction
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Capital loss carryover, valuation allowance		9,900
Foreign Country
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Valuation allowance on deferred tax asset		55,200
Net operating loss carryovers		4,640,000
Operating loss carryover, valuation allowance		4,610,000
Change in Estimate, Foreign Net Operating Loss
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Increase in valuation allowance		$ 749,800

Fair Value of Financial Instr_3

Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Long-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Total long-term debt, excluding debt issuance costs	$ 1,712,003	$ 1,845,309
Total long-term debt, fair value, excluding debt issuance costs	$ 1,731,271	$ 1,949,638

Fair Value of Financial Instr_4

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Details) - Forward Contracts - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount	$ 626,500	$ 357,400
Other accounts receivable
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Fair value foreign currency forward contracts, asset	431	0
Accrued expenses
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Fair value foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities	0	4,954
Other expenses, net
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Recognized (losses) gains of foreign currency forward contracts	(19,851)	4,588	$ 16,095
Other, net
Fair Value, Option, Quantitative Disclosures [Line Items]
Change in the fair value of foreign currency forward contracts	19,900	(4,600)	(16,100)
Cash settlements	$ (25,200)
Cash receipts		$ 9,400	$ 16,000

Fair Value Measurement Financia

Fair Value Measurement Financial Assets and Liabilities Accounted for at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Investments under executive deferred compensation plan	$ 26,292	$ 25,494
Private equity securities	26	38
Private equity securities measured at net asset value	7,195	5,121
Foreign currency forward contracts, assets	431
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan	26,292	25,494
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities		4,954
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	26,292	25,494
Private equity securities	26	38
Private equity securities measured at net asset value	0	0
Foreign currency forward contracts, assets	0
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan	26,292	25,494
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities		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
Foreign currency forward contracts, assets	431
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan	0	0
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities		4,954
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
Foreign currency forward contracts, assets	0
Obligations under executive deferred compensation plan	$ 0	0
Foreign currency forward contracts, liabilities		$ 0

Related Party Transactions (Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) - Unconsolidated Affiliates - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Sales to unconsolidated affiliates	$ 35,094	$ 29,514	$ 29,651
Purchases from unconsolidated affiliates	256,701	209,266	$ 130,287
Receivables from related parties	14,348	2,406
Payables to related parties	$ 68,357	$ 55,801

Segment and Geographic Area I_3

Segment and Geographic Area Information - Additional Information (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments	3

Segment and Geographic Area I_4

Segment and Geographic Area Information Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 921,699	$ 777,748	$ 853,874	$ 821,629	$ 857,789	$ 754,866	$ 737,258	$ 722,063	$ 3,374,950	$ 3,071,976	$ 2,677,203
Adjusted EBITDA									1,006,664	885,480	758,217
Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation	(129,596)	(129,745)	(302,461)	(131,760)	$ 218,366	$ (118,670)	$ (103,333)	$ (51,213)	(693,562)	(54,850)	(643,675)
Depreciation and amortization									200,698	196,928	226,169
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net	$ 8,277	$ 0	$ (218,705)	$ 0					(210,428)	0	(122,298)
Gain on acquisition									0	(6,221)	0
Acquisition and integration related costs									0	0	57,384
Interest and financing expenses									52,405	115,350	65,181
Income tax expense									144,826	431,817	96,263
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)									0	0	(202,131)
Note receivable reserve									28,700	28,700
Reportable Segments | Lithium
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									1,228,171	1,018,885	668,852
Adjusted EBITDA									530,773	446,652	285,714
Depreciation and amortization									95,193	87,879	86,862
Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									917,880	855,143	792,425
Adjusted EBITDA									288,116	258,901	226,926
Depreciation and amortization									41,607	40,062	39,562
Reportable Segments | Catalysts
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									1,101,554	1,067,572	1,031,501
Adjusted EBITDA									284,307	283,883	316,609
Depreciation and amortization									49,131	54,468	51,193
All Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									127,186	128,914	180,988
Adjusted EBITDA									14,091	13,878	14,772
Depreciation and amortization									8,073	8,357	7,302
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									159	1,462	3,437
Adjusted EBITDA									(110,623)	(117,834)	(85,804)
Depreciation and amortization									6,694	6,162	6,056
Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA									1,006,664	885,480	758,217
Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation									693,562	54,850	643,675
Depreciation and amortization									200,698	196,928	190,975
Utilization of inventory markup										23,095
Restructuring and other, net									3,838	17,056
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net									(210,428)		(122,298)
Gain on acquisition										(6,221)
Acquisition and integration related costs									19,377	33,954	57,384
Interest and financing expenses									52,405	115,350	65,181
Income tax expense									144,826	431,817	96,263
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)											(202,131)
Non-operating pension and OPEB items									5,285	(16,125)	25,589
Legal accrual									27,027
Environmental accrual									15,597
Albemarle Foundation contribution									15,000
Indemnification adjustments									25,240
Note receivable reserve										28,730
Other									14,237	6,046	3,579
Continuing Operations | Reportable Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA									1,103,196	989,436	829,249
Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation									1,120,325	792,496	651,632
Depreciation and amortization									185,931	182,409	177,617
Utilization of inventory markup										23,095
Restructuring and other, net									0	0
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net									(210,428)		0
Gain on acquisition										(6,221)
Acquisition and integration related costs									0	0	0
Interest and financing expenses									0	0	0
Income tax expense									0	0	0
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)											0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items									0	0	0
Legal accrual									0
Environmental accrual									0
Albemarle Foundation contribution									0
Indemnification adjustments									0
Note receivable reserve										0
Other									7,368	(2,343)	0
Continuing Operations | Reportable Segments | Lithium
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA									530,773	446,652	285,714
Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation									428,212	342,992	198,852
Depreciation and amortization									95,193	87,879	86,862
Utilization of inventory markup										23,095
Restructuring and other, net									0	0
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net									0		0
Gain on acquisition										(6,221)
Acquisition and integration related costs									0	0	0
Interest and financing expenses									0	0	0
Income tax expense									0	0	0
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)											0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items									0	0	0
Legal accrual									0
Environmental accrual									0
Albemarle Foundation contribution									0
Indemnification adjustments									0
Note receivable reserve										0
Other									7,368	(1,093)	0
Continuing Operations | Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA									288,116	258,901	226,926
Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation									246,509	218,839	187,364
Depreciation and amortization									41,607	40,062	39,562
Utilization of inventory markup										0
Restructuring and other, net									0	0
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net									0		0
Gain on acquisition										0
Acquisition and integration related costs									0	0	0
Interest and financing expenses									0	0	0
Income tax expense									0	0	0
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)											0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items									0	0	0
Legal accrual									0
Environmental accrual									0
Albemarle Foundation contribution									0
Indemnification adjustments									0
Note receivable reserve										0
Other									0	0	0
Continuing Operations | Reportable Segments | Catalysts
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA									284,307	283,883	316,609
Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation									445,604	230,665	265,416
Depreciation and amortization									49,131	54,468	51,193
Utilization of inventory markup										0
Restructuring and other, net									0	0
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net									(210,428)		0
Gain on acquisition										0
Acquisition and integration related costs									0	0	0
Interest and financing expenses									0	0	0
Income tax expense									0	0	0
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)											0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items									0	0	0
Legal accrual									0
Environmental accrual									0
Albemarle Foundation contribution									0
Indemnification adjustments									0
Note receivable reserve										0
Other									0	(1,250)	0
Continuing Operations | All Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA									14,091	13,878	14,772
Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation									6,018	5,521	131,301
Depreciation and amortization									8,073	8,357	7,302
Utilization of inventory markup										0
Restructuring and other, net									0	0
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net									0		(123,831)
Gain on acquisition										0
Acquisition and integration related costs									0	0	0
Interest and financing expenses									0	0	0
Income tax expense									0	0	0
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)											0
Non-operating pension and OPEB items									0	0	0
Legal accrual									0
Environmental accrual									0
Albemarle Foundation contribution									0
Indemnification adjustments									0
Note receivable reserve										0
Other									0	0	0
Continuing Operations | Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Adjusted EBITDA									(110,623)	(117,834)	(85,804)
Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation									(432,781)	(743,167)	(139,258)
Depreciation and amortization									6,694	6,162	6,056
Utilization of inventory markup										0
Restructuring and other, net									3,838	17,056
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net									0		1,533
Gain on acquisition										0
Acquisition and integration related costs									19,377	33,954	57,384
Interest and financing expenses									52,405	115,350	65,181
Income tax expense									144,826	431,817	96,263
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)											(202,131)
Non-operating pension and OPEB items									5,285	(16,125)	25,589
Legal accrual									27,027
Environmental accrual									15,597
Albemarle Foundation contribution									15,000
Indemnification adjustments									25,240
Note receivable reserve										28,730
Other									$ 6,869	$ 8,389	$ 3,579

Segment and Geographic Area I_5

Segment and Geographic Area Information Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments (Footnote) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Feb. 01, 2017
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Multiemployer plan, period contributions	$ 1,500	$ 1,500	$ 1,700
Loss on extinguishment of debt	0	(52,801)	(1,921)
Cost of sales
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring and other, net	100	2,900
Write-off of fixed assets	4,900
Non-routine Chilean labor costs	8,800
Reversal of a liability from an abandoned project		1,300
Research and development expenses
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring and other, net		5,700
Write-off of fixed assets			1,400
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring and other, net	3,700	8,400
Charitable contribution	1,200
Gain related to a refund form Chilean authorities	1,500
Reversal of purchase accounting accrual		1,000
Net gain (loss) on sales of properties			(900)
Other expenses, net
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revision of tax indemnification expense	19,700	3,700
Revision of previously recorded expenses of a disposed business	5,500
Reversal of a liability from previous business	1,500	1,100
Asset retirement obligation charges		3,200
Net gain (loss) on sales of properties		(8,700)	1,100
Settlement of a legal claim		1,000
Reversal of a liability from previous acquisition		10,600
Environmental charges			$ 2,400
Jiangxi Jiangli New Materials Science and Technology Co. Ltd.
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Inventory markup		23,100
Sales de Magnesio Ltda.
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of equity interests acquired				50.00%
Financial Improvement Plan | Selling, general and administrative expenses
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Multiemployer plan, period contributions	$ 2,300	$ 3,300

Segment and Geographic Area I_6

Segment and Geographic Area Information Identifiable Assets and Goodwill by Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	$ 7,581,674	$ 7,750,772	$ 8,161,207
Goodwill	1,567,169	1,610,355	1,540,032
Reportable Segments | Lithium
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	4,605,070	3,979,615	3,499,302
Goodwill	1,354,779	1,389,089	1,326,980
Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	753,157	745,007	724,218
Goodwill	20,319	20,319	20,319
Reportable Segments | Catalysts
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	1,134,975	1,332,599	1,224,504
Goodwill	185,485	194,361	186,147
All Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	128,185	126,486	130,595
Goodwill	6,586	6,586	6,586
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	960,287	1,567,065	$ 2,582,588
Immaterial Error Correction | Reportable Segments | Lithium
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets	$ 238,500
Immaterial Error Correction | Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Identifiable assets		$ 238,500

Segment and Geographic Area I_7

Segment and Geographic Area Information Depreciation and Amortization and Capital Expenditures by Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	$ 200,698	$ 196,928	$ 226,169
Capital expenditures	699,991	317,703	196,654
Reportable Segments | Lithium
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	95,193	87,879	86,862
Capital expenditures	500,849	192,318	72,038
Reportable Segments | Bromine Specialties
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	41,607	40,062	39,562
Capital expenditures	79,357	46,427	46,414
Reportable Segments | Catalysts
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	49,131	54,468	51,193
Capital expenditures	52,019	46,808	47,475
All Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	8,073	8,357	7,302
Capital expenditures	5,232	3,657	9,251
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	6,694	6,162	6,056
Capital expenditures	62,534	28,493	2,195
Discontinued Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization	0	0	35,194
Capital expenditures	$ 0	$ 0	$ 19,281

Segment and Geographic Area I_8

Segment and Geographic Area Information Net Sales by Geographic Area (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 921,699	$ 777,748	$ 853,874	$ 821,629	$ 857,789	$ 754,866	$ 737,258	$ 722,063	$ 3,374,950	$ 3,071,976	$ 2,677,203
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									887,416	840,589	797,267
Foreign
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 2,487,534	$ 2,231,387	$ 1,879,936
Korea
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percent of total net sales									13.00%
China
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percent of total net sales									12.00%	15.00%	13.00%
Japan
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percent of total net sales									10.00%

Segment and Geographic Area I_9

Segment and Geographic Area Information Long-Lived Assets by Geographic Area (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	$ 3,506,990	$ 2,996,661	$ 2,793,599
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	929,291	833,002	850,689
Chile
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	1,406,478	1,069,859	922,878
Australia
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	407,141	364,624	288,553
Jordan
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	254,800	242,626	227,222
Netherlands
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	166,853	171,980	145,917
Germany
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	101,168	115,305	117,027
China
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	91,160	50,532	31,564
France
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	43,698	40,852	39,470
Brazil
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	40,464	47,255	46,380
Korea
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	111	495	65,963
Other foreign countries
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Long-lived assets	$ 65,826	$ 60,131	$ 57,936

Quarterly Financial Summary (_3

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 921,699	$ 777,748	$ 853,874	$ 821,629	$ 857,789	$ 754,866	$ 737,258	$ 722,063	$ 3,374,950	$ 3,071,976	$ 2,677,203
Gross profit	320,384	280,537	311,356	304,979	303,703	275,657	271,960	254,956	1,217,256	1,106,276	970,306
(Gain) loss on sales of businesses, net	8,277	0	(218,705)	0					(210,428)	0	(122,298)
Net income (loss)	146,049	143,479	310,686	138,925	(207,071)	130,193	113,689	62,657	739,139	99,468	478,638
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(16,453)	(13,734)	(8,225)	(7,165)	(11,295)	(11,523)	(10,356)	(11,444)	(45,577)	(44,618)	(37,094)
Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$ 129,596	$ 129,745	$ 302,461	$ 131,760	$ (218,366)	$ 118,670	$ 103,333	$ 51,213	$ 693,562	$ 54,850	$ 643,675
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
Basic earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 1.22	$ 1.21	$ 2.76	$ 1.19	$ (1.98)	$ 1.07	$ 0.93	$ 0.46	$ 6.40	$ 0.49	$ 3.93
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—basic (in shares)	106,042	107,315	109,671	110,681	110,510	110,476	110,686	111,986	108,427	110,914	112,379
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 1.21	$ 1.20	$ 2.73	$ 1.18	$ (1.95)	$ 1.06	$ 0.92	$ 0.45	$ 6.34	$ 0.49	$ 3.90
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—diluted (in shares)	107,005	108,302	110,659	111,867	112,152	111,975	112,105	113,289	109,458	112,380	113,239

Quarterly Financial Summary (_4

Quarterly Financial Summary (Unaudited) - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Actuarial (loss) gain	$ 14	$ (11.4)
Actuarial (loss) gain, net of income tax	$ (10.6)	$ (7.3)