Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Accounts Payable, Current Accounts payable Total gross receivable due from customer, clients, other third parties or from transactions not separately disclosed, within one year of the balance sheet date (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer). Accounts Receivable Current Accounts receivable, gross Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Trade receivables Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Accounts receivable, net Accounts receivable, net Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Accrued liabilities for environmental matters Accrued general liability insurance claims as of the balance sheet date which are included in accrued and other liabilities. Accrued General Liability Insurance Claims Accrued general liability insurance claims Expenses and fees incurred evaluating and analyzing proposals received from certain activists shareholders and dealing, negotiating and settling with those shareholders in order to avoid a proxy contest. Activist Shareholder Fees And Expense Fees and expenses relating to shareholders Additional Paid in Capital Capital in excess of par value Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Capital in Excess of Par Value [Member] Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Excess income tax benefit associated with stock-based compensation Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by continuing operating activities: Agreement Maturity Date Agreement Maturity Date Ammonium nitrate supply agreement maturity date Other Segments [Member] Other [Member] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Period Increase (Decrease) Provision for (recovery of) losses on accounts receivable Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Ammonia plant. Ammonia Plant [Member] Ammonia Plant [Member] Ammonium Nitrate Supply Agreement [Member] Ammonium Nitrate Supply Agreement [Member] Ammonium Nitrate Supply Agreement [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of diluted earning per share Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligations, Noncurrent Accrued liability for AROs Assets Total assets Total assets Assets [Abstract] Assets Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Total Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Assets - Supplies, prepaid items and other: The balance of an asset deposited or invested that are in excess of the FDIC-insured limit. Balance In Excess Of Fdic Insured Limits Balance in excess of FDIC-insured limits Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Accounts payable and long-term debt associated with additions of property, plant and equipment Fair value as of the balance sheet date of carbon credit assets, which do not meet the criteria of a derivative instrument. Carbon Credit Assets Fair Value Disclosure Carbon credits The number of carbon credit units held by the entity subject to contractual obligations. Carbon Credit Contractual Obligation Number Of Instruments Held Number of carbon credits The fair value per carbon credit unit as of the balance sheet date. Carbon Credit Fair Value Per Unit Carbon credit fair value per unit Fair value as of the balance sheet date of carbon credit liabilities, which do not meet the criteria of a derivative instrument. Carbon Credit Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure Contractual obligations - carbon credits Carbon credits. Carbon Credits [Member] Carbon Credits [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Noncurrent Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Noncash investing and financing activities: Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Supplemental Cash Flow Information Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Operating cash flows Certificate Of Deposit Original Maturity Period Certificate Of Deposit Original Maturity Period Original maturity period Certificates of Deposit [Member] CD [Member] Goodwill of Chemical. Chemical [Member] Chemical [Member] Chemical products. Chemical Products [Member] Chemical Products [Member] Cherokee Facility [Member] Cherokee Facility [Member] Cherokee Facility [Member] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Goodwill of Climate Control. Climate Control [Member] Climate Control [Member] Climate control products. Climate Control Products [Member] Climate Control Products [Member] Commercial and industrial product base warranty coverage for manufactured product period. Commercial And Industrial Product Base Warranty Coverage For Manufactured Product Commercial and industrial product base warranty coverage for manufactured equipment Commercial and industrial product base warranty coverage for spare parts. Commercial And Industrial Product Base Warranty Coverage For Spare Parts Commercial and industrial product base warranty coverage for spare parts Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and contingencies (Note 9) Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items] Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items] Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items] Commitments And Contingencies [Table] Commitments And Contingencies [Table] Commitments And Contingencies [Table] Commodity Contract [Member] Commodities Contracts [Member] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock Shares [Member] Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, par value Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $.10 par value; 75,000,000 shares authorized, 27,044,903 shares issued (26,968,212 shares at December 31, 2014) Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentration of Credit Risks for Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Investments at Financial Institutions Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Basis of Consolidation and Presentation Construction in Progress, Gross Project costs capitalized Initial term of this agreement is for one year, with renewal options, but either party has an option to terminate the agreement pursuant to the terms of the agreement. Contracts Period Contract period The terms relating to contract. Contract Terms Contract terms Contractual obligations relating to carbon credits. Contractual Obligations Relating To Carbon Credits [Member] Contractual Obligations Relating to Carbon Credits [Member] Contractual weighted average pay rate related to the entity's interest rate contracts as of the balance sheet date. Contractual Weighted Average Pay Rate Contractual weighted-average pay rate Convertible Preferred Stock [Member] Convertible Preferred Stocks [Member] Corporate and Other [Member] Corporate and Other [Member] Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Corporate [Member] Cost of Revenue Cost of sales Cost of Sales [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Federal Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current: Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) State Customer deposits current and noncurrent. Customer Deposits Current And Noncurrent Customer deposits Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Long-term debt Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Instrument, Frequency of Periodic Payment Debt instrument, frequency of interest payment Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Secured Promissory Note, interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt instrument, interest rate Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Maturity date Debt Instrument Maturity Year Debt Instrument Maturity Year Maturity year Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Decrease in Restricted Cash Proceeds from noncurrent restricted cash and cash equivalents Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Federal Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income taxes Total Deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Deferred: Current and noncurrent carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of deferred revenue on extended warranty contracts. Deferred Revenue On Extended Warranty Contracts Current And Noncurrent Deferred revenue on extended warranty contracts Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Deferred income taxes Depreciation Depreciation, depletion and amortization of property, plant and equipment Derivative Asset Commodities contracts Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate LIBOR rate Derivative, Forward Exchange Rate Contractual exchange rate The quantity of derivative future or forward contract(s) measured in ounces. Derivative Future Or Forward Contract In Ounces Future or forward contract in ounces The derivative future or forward contract(s) measured in pounds as of the period end. Derivative Future Or Forward Contract In Pounds Derivative future or forward contracts in pounds The volume of derivative future or forward contract(s) as of the period end. Derivative Future Or Forward Contract In Volume Derivative future or forward contracts in volume Derivative future or forward foreign exchange contract period. Derivative Future Or Forward Foreign Exchange Contract Period Future or forward foreign exchange contracts settlement period The period derivative future or forward platinum contract(s) settle. Derivative Future Or Forward Platinum Contract Period Future or forward platinum contracts settlement period Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Table] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Table] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Derivatives, Hedges, Financial Instruments and Carbon Credits The amount of net gains and losses (realized and unrealized) recognized in earnings during the period on derivative instruments and carbon credit assets or carbon credit contractual obligations measured at fair value. Derivative Instruments Carbon Credits Gain Loss Recognized In Earnings Total net gain (losses) included in earnings Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Liability Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities Derivative, Notional Amount Interest rate swap declining balance beginning balance Disclosure Accrued Product Warranty Costs [Abstract] Disclosure Accrued Product Warranty Costs [Abstract] Disclosure Accrued Product Warranty Costs [Abstract] Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash Dividends on preferred stocks Dividends paid on preferred stocks Total dividends on preferred stocks Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Type Document Type Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Income per common share: Earnings Per Share, Basic Basic Basic net income per common share Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Diluted Diluted Diluted net income per common share Numerator. Earnings Per Share Numerator [Abstract] Numerator: Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Income Per Common Share Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Percentage of pre-tax income Eldorado. Eldorado [Member] El Dorado Facility [Member] Employee-related Liabilities Accrued payroll and benefits Employee Stock Option [Member] Stock Options [Member] Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Ownership interest in equity method investment Estimated market weighted average receive rate related to the entity's interest rate contracts as of the balance sheet date. Estimated Market Weighted Average Receive Rate Estimated market weighted-average receive rate The estimated cost of a project. Estimated Project Costs Estimated range of project costs to construct plant Excess Of Estimated Fair Value Over Carrying Value Excess Of Estimated Fair Value Over Carrying Value Excess of estimated fair value over carrying value Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Excess income tax benefit associated with stock-based compensation Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Tabular disclosure of the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances, separately presenting changes during the period attributable to the following: (1) total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized); (2) purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net); and (3) transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs). Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation Table [Text Block] Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balances for Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] Fair Value Inputs, Offered Quotes Notes based on quoted price Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Recurring [Member] Fair value measurement with inputs reconciliation recurring basis asset transfers in out of level one and level two. Fair Value Measurement With Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset Transfers In Out Of Level One And Level Two Assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis transferred between Level 1 and Level 2 classifications Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Liability, Transfers Into Level 3 Transfers into Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Liability, Transfers out of Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Issuances Issuances Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Period Increase (Decrease) Total gains (losses) for the period included in earnings attributed to the change in unrealized gains or losses on assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases Purchases Fair value measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation recurring basis assets. Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Assets [Abstract] Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Assets [Abstract] Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales Sales Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Settlements Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3 Transfers into Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Ending balance Beginning balance Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Total realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Issuances Issuances Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Period Increase (Decrease) Total gains (losses) for the period included in earnings attributed to the change in unrealized gains or losses on assets and liabilities still held at the reporting date Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Purchases Purchases Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Sales Sales Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Settlements Settlements Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value Ending balance Beginning balance Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Derivative at Fair Value, Net Amount of foreign currency contract Foreign Currency Exchange Rate, Translation Total contractual weighted-average exchange rate Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member] The period derivative future or forward copper contract(s) settle. Future Or Forward Copper Contract Period Future or forward copper contracts period Gain on property insurance recoveries associated with property plant and equipment. Gain On Property Insurance Recoveries Associated With Property Plant And Equipment Gains on property insurance recoveries associated with property, plant and equipment Tabular disclosure of general corporate expenses and other business operations, net, which are not allocated to reportable segments. General Corporate Expenses And Other Business Operations Table [Text Block] General Corporate Expenses and Other Business Operations, Net Golsen Group. Golsen Group [Member] Golsen Group [Member] Gross Profit Gross profit Gross profit Guarantees [Abstract] Guarantees [Abstract] Hallowell facility. Hallowell Facility [Member] Hallowell Facility [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income from continuing operations before provisions for income taxes and equity in earnings of affiliate Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Net loss from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Equity in earnings of affiliate Equity in earnings of affiliate - Climate Control Income Statement [Abstract] Income Statement [Abstract] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Taxes Income Taxes Paid, Net Cash refunds for income taxes, net Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Provisions for income taxes Provisions for income taxes The increase (decrease) during the reporting period associated with a gain contingency relating to an insurance recovery that was deferred. Increase Decrease Deferred Gain On Insurance Recovery Deferred gain on insurance recoveries Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable Prepaid and accrued income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Customer Deposits Customer deposits Increase (Decrease) in Interest Payable, Net Accrued interest Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Cash provided (used) by changes in assets and liabilities (net of effects of discontinued operations): Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Other supplies, prepaid items and other Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Other current and noncurrent liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Insurance Prepaid insurance Increase in Restricted Cash Deposits of current and noncurrent restricted cash and cash equivalents Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Conversion of Preferred Stock Convertible preferred stocks Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Stock options The amount of recoverable costs included in an insurance claim. Insurance Claim Recoverable Costs Business interruption loss Insurance Claims [Member] Insurance Claims [Member] Insurance coverage of general liability and auto liability risks. Insurance Coverage Of General Liability And Auto Liability Risks Insurance coverage of general liability risks Insurance Policy One [Member] Insurance Policy One [Member] Insurance Policy One [Member] Insurance Policy Two [Member] Insurance Policy Two [Member] Insurance Policy Two [Member] Insurance Recoveries Business interruption and property insurance recoveries Disclosure of accounting policy for recognition of insurance recoveries. Insurance Recoveries Revenue Recognition Policy [Text Block] Recognition of Insurance Recoveries Interest Costs Capitalized Interest cost capitalized Interest Expense Interest expense, net Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Payable Accrued interest Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contracts [Member] The description of the fixed interest rate for a interest rate contract held as of the period end. Interest Rate Contracts Fixed Rate Description Interest rate contracts fixed rate description The minimum amount of a interest rate swap declining balance as of the period end. Interest Rate Swap Declining Balance Minimum Amount Interest rate swap declining balance ending balance Inventory, Current [Table] Inventory, Current [Table] Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Inventories Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Finished goods Inventory [Line Items] Inventory [Line Items] Inventory, Net Total inventories Inventory, Net [Abstract] Inventories: Inventory, Raw Materials, Gross Raw materials Inventory Valuation Reserves Inventory reserves Inventory, Work in Process, Gross Work in progress Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Short-Term Investments Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Labor and Related Expense Personnel costs Less treasury stock at cost. Less Treasury Stock At Cost [Abstract] Less treasury stock, at cost: Liabilities and Equity Total Liabilities and Stockholders' equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current liabilities: Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Total Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Liabilities - Current and noncurrent accrued and other liabilities: Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Maximum amount of revolving credit facility Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Amount available for borrowing Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Accounts Receivable Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Long-term debt Long-term debt due after one year Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Current portion of long-term debt Less current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Long-Term Debt Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Weighted-average interest rate of other debt The annual amount of tons of product to supply pursuant to a long-term supply agreement. Long Term Supply Commitment Quantity Current purchase agreement quantity with Orica International Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Aggregate amount in controversy Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Number of Plaintiffs Minimum number of potential plaintiffs The maturity date of a interest rate contract held as of the period end. Maturity Date Of Interest Rate Contract Held Maturity period interest rate contracts held Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] The period derivative future or forward natural gas contract(s) settle. Month Future Or Forward Natural Gas Contract Period Ends The month future or forward natural gas contract period ends Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations [Abstract] Cash flows of discontinued operations: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash used by continuing financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Cash flows from continuing financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash provided (used) by continuing investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Cash flows from continuing investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash provided by continuing operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Cash flows from continuing operating activities Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net income Net income Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Numerator for basic net income per common share - net income applicable to common stock Net income applicable to common stock Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Numerator for diluted net income per common share New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Nitric acid plant. Nitric Acid Plant [Member] Nitric Acid Plant [Member] Noncash additions of capitalized internal-use software and software development. Noncash Capitalized Software Additions Accounts payable, long-term debt associated with additions of capitalized internal-use software and software development Non-current restricted investments [Member] Non Current Restricted Investments [Member] Noncurrent Restricted Investments [Member] Disclosure of accounting policy for noncurrent investments in financial assets, that is restricted as to withdrawal or usage. Restrictions may include legally restrictions or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits. Noncurrent Restricted Investments [Policy Text Block] Noncurrent Restricted Investments Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Nonredeemable Preferred Stock [Member] Non-Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member] The notice of termination for an agreement. Notice Of Termination Notice of termination The number of alleged violation identified. Number Of Alleged Violation Number of alleged violations The number of chemical subsidiaries that sold their operating assets consisting of the Hallowell Facility now classified as discontinued operations. Number Of Subsidiaries Under Chemical Business That Sold Their Operating Assets Number of subsidiaries under Chemical Business that sold their operating assets The number of unsecured guarantors in an agreement. Number Of Unsecured Guarantors Number of unsecured guarantors Offsetting [Abstract] Offsetting [Abstract] Operating Income (Loss) Operating income Operating income Operating Segments [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Orica International. Orica International [Member] Orica International [Member] Other Accrued Liabilities Other Other Assets Total other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Other, net Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Other assets: Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Domain] Other Commitments [Domain] Other Cost and Expense, Operating Other expense Other Expense [Member] Other Expense [Member] Other Income [Member] Other Income [Member] Other Liabilities Total current and noncurrent accrued liabilities Total current and noncurrent accrued liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Accrued and other liabilities Current portion of accrued and other liabilities Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract] Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract] Other Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] Current and Noncurrent Accrued and Other Liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Less noncurrent portion Noncurrent accrued and other liabilities Other long term debt. Other Long Term Debt [Member] Other [Member] Other Noncash Income (Expense) Other Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Non-operating expense (income), net Non-operating other income, net Other Operating Income Other income Other Operating Income (Expense), Net Other expense (income), net Other Prepaid Expense, Current Other Other Receivables, Gross, Current Other Other Short-term Investments Short-term investments Payables and Accruals [Abstract] Payables and Accruals [Abstract] Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Other investing activities Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Dividends paid on preferred stocks Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Expenditures for property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Short-term Investments Purchases of short-term investments Penalty related to discharge water permit. Penalty Related To Discharge Water Permit Penalty related to discharge water permit Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of precious metals used as a catalyst in the chemical manufacturing process to be consumed or sold within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Precious Metals Precious metals Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage Convertible preferred stock dividend rate Dividends on preferred stocks assumed to be converted, if dilutive, to derive diluted net income per common share. Preferred Stock Dividends Dilutive Net Income Per Common Share Dividends on preferred stocks assumed to be converted, if dilutive Preferred Stock, No Par Value Series D cumulative, convertible Class C preferred stock, par value Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Series B cumulative, convertible preferred stock, par value Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Preferred stock, shares outstanding Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Preferred stock, value Prepaid Insurance Prepaid insurance Prepaid Taxes Prepaid and refundable income taxes Proceeds from Insurance Settlement, Investing Activities Proceeds from property insurance recovery associated with property, plant and equipment Proceeds from Sale of Restricted Investments Proceeds from noncurrent restricted investments Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Proceeds from exercises of stock options Product liability deductible per claim. Product Liability Deductible Per Claim Product liability deductible per claim Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Product Warranty Accrual Balance at end of period Balance at beginning of period Accrued warranty costs Product warranty accrual charged to selling general and administration expense. Product Warranty Accrual Charged To Selling General And Administration Expense Amounts charged to SG&A Product Warranty Accrual, Payments Costs incurred Product Warranty Disclosure [Text Block] Accrued Warranty Costs Professional Fees Professional fees The amount of property insurance recoveries in excess of losses incurred. Property Insurance Recoveries In Excess Of Losses Incurred Property insurance recoveries in excess of losses incurred Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, plant and equipment, net Purchase Commitment, Excluding Long-term Commitment [Axis] Purchase Commitment, Excluding Long-term Commitment [Axis] Purchase Commitment, Excluding Long-term Commitment [Domain] Purchase Commitment, Excluding Long-term Commitment [Domain] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Receivables [Abstract] Receivables [Abstract] Receivable sales agreement. Receivable Sales Agreement [Member] Receivable Sales Agreement [Member] Receivable [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Total Assets by Business Segment Related party commitment obligation percentage. Related Party Commitment Obligation Percentage Percentage of payment of investigation costs agreed by Hallowell Facility Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Repayments of Long-term Debt Payments on long-term debt Repayments of Short-term Debt Payments on short-term financing Residential products warranty coverage for labor associated with repair. Residential Products Warranty Coverage For Labor Associated With Repair Residential products warranty coverage for labor associated with repair Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Restricted cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Noncurrent restricted cash and cash equivalents Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent Noncurrent restricted investments Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Retained earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Revenue, Net Net sales Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Accounts Receivable Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Additional Information Relating to Cash Flow Activities Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Provisions for Income Taxes Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-Term Debt Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Net Gains (Losses) Included in Earnings and Income Statement Classifications Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Common Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis Schedule of Other Assets and Other Liabilities [Table Text Block] Summary of Current and Noncurrent Accrued and Other Liabilities Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block] Changes in Product Warranty Obligation (Accrued Warranty Costs) Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Segment Financial Information Secured promissory note. Secured Promissory Note [Member] Secured Promissory Note Due 2016 [Member] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Information Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Selling, General and Administrative Expense Selling, general and administrative expense Total selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense [Abstract] Selling, general and administrative: The total amount of other selling, general and administrative expenses not separately disclosed within the income statement. Selling General And Administrative Other All other Senior Notes [Member] Senior Secured Notes [Member] Series B Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Preferred Stock [Member] Series D Preferred Stock [Member] Series D Preferred Stock [Member] Seven point seven five percentage senior notes. Seven Point Seven Five Percentage Senior Notes [Member] 7.75% Senior Secured Notes Due 2019 [Member] Shares, Issued Balance, shares Balance, shares Short-term Debt Short-term financing Short-term Investments [Member] Short-Term Investments [Member] Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Balance Balance Total stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity before Treasury Stock Stockholders equity including treasury stock Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Issued for Services Common stock issued for services, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Exercise of stock options, shares Stock Issued During Period, Value, Issued for Services Common stock issued for services Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Exercise of stock options Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments [Domain] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events [Text Block] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] Prepaid Supplies Supplies Total supplies, prepaid items and other. Supplies Prepaid Items And Other Total supplies, prepaid items and other Supplies prepaid items and other. Supplies Prepaid Items And Other [Abstract] Supplies, prepaid items and other: Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Treasury Stock [Member] Treasury Stock-Common [Member] Treasury Stock, Shares Treasury stock, common shares Treasury Stock, Value Common stock, 4,320,462 shares Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Warranty coverage for residential products from the date of shipment. Warranty Coverage For Residential Products From Date Of Shipment Residential products, the base warranty coverage from the date of shipment for material The weighted average cost per MMbtu of future or forward natural gas contract as of the period end. Weighted Average Cost Per Mmbtu Of Future Or Forward Natural Gas Contract Contractual weighted-average cost Weighted average cost per ounce of future or forward platinum contract. Weighted Average Cost Per Ounce Of Future Or Forward Platinum Contract Weighted-average cost per ounce of future or forward platinum contracts The weighted average cost per pound of future or forward copper contract(s) as of the period end. Weighted Average Cost Per Pound Of Future Or Forward Copper Contract Weighted-average cost per pound of future or forward copper contracts Weighted Average Exchange Rate During Period Weighted Average Exchange Rate During Period Total estimated market weighted-average exchange rate The weighted average market value per MMbtu of future or forward natural gas contracts as of the period end. Weighted Average Market Value Per Mmbtu Of Future Or Forward Natural Gas Contract Estimated weighted-average market value Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Dilutive potential common shares Incremental Weighted Average Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect [Abstract] Effect of dilutive securities: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Diluted Denominator for dilutive net income per common share - adjusted weighted-average shares and assumed conversions Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Denominator: Weighted-average common shares: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Basic Denominator for basic net income per common share - weighted-average shares Working capital revolver loan. Working Capital Revolver Loan [Member] Working Capital Revolver Loan [Member]