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Operating Segments -Summarized Financial Information by Reportable Segments (Parenthetical) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified | 3 Months Ended
--- | ---
Mar. 31, 2014 | Mar. 31, 2013
Operating Segments [Abstract] |  |
Postretirement credits included in corporate and other | $ (14.6) | $ 1.2

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- Definition Defined benefit pension and other postretirement credits (costs) included in corporate and other + References No definition available. + Details
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Namespace Prefix: | alb_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

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- Details
Name: | alb_OperatingSegmentsAbstract
Namespace Prefix: | alb_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration