XML 21 R79.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v2.4.1.9

Consolidating Guarantor Financial Information - Statement of Income 2 (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | 3 Months Ended
--- | ---
Mar. 31, 2015 | Mar. 31, 2014
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] |  |
Net sales | $ 884,404us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet | $ 599,843us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
Cost of goods sold | 625,938us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold | 404,244us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold
Gross profit | 258,466us-gaap_GrossProfit | 195,599us-gaap_GrossProfit
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 135,765us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense | 78,104us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
Research and development expenses | 26,492us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense | 22,572us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense
Restructuring and other charges, net | 0us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions | 17,000us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions
Acquisition and integration related costs | 59,523us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts | 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts
Intercompany service fee | 0us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty | 0us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty
Operating profit | 36,686us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss | 77,923us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
Interest and financing expenses | (35,746)us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense | (8,773)us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense
Intergroup interest and financing expenses | 0us-gaap_InterestExpenseRelatedParty |
Other income (expenses), net | 49,957us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense | 1,143us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 50,897us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments | 70,293us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments
Income tax expense (benefit) | 14,140us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit | 13,190us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit
Income from continuing operations before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 36,757alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments | 57,103alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 10,392us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments | 8,901us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments
Net income from continuing operations | 47,149us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest | 66,004us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax | (1,769)us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries | 0alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments | 0alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments
Net income | 47,149us-gaap_ProfitLoss | 64,235us-gaap_ProfitLoss
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests | (4,034)us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest | (7,652)us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation | 43,115us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss | 56,583us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
4.625% Senior Notes | Parent Company Guarantor |  |
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] |  |
Net sales | 378,172us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 376,324us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Cost of goods sold | 258,124us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 261,593us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Gross profit | 120,048us-gaap_GrossProfit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 114,731us-gaap_GrossProfit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 40,517us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 55,769us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Research and development expenses | 13,368us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 14,156us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Restructuring and other charges, net |  | 3,000us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Acquisition and integration related costs | 38,880us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember |
Intercompany service fee | 5,665us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 5,070us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Operating profit | 21,618us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 36,736us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Interest and financing expenses | (26,656)us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | (8,798)us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Intergroup interest and financing expenses | (5,914)us-gaap_InterestExpenseRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember |
Other income (expenses), net | 28,568us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 208us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 17,616us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 28,146us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Income tax expense (benefit) | 10,892us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 10,371us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Income from continuing operations before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 6,724alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 17,775alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 2,019us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 1,936us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Net income from continuing operations | 8,743us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 19,711us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | (413)us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries | 34,372alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 37,285alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Net income | 43,115us-gaap_ProfitLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 56,583us-gaap_ProfitLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests | 0us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 0us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation | 43,115us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember | 56,583us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = alb_ParentCompanyGuarantorMember
4.625% Senior Notes | Issuer |  |
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] |  |
Net sales | 0us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Cost of goods sold | 0us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Gross profit | 0us-gaap_GrossProfit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_GrossProfit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 0us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Research and development expenses | 0us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Restructuring and other charges, net |  | 0us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Acquisition and integration related costs | 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember |
Intercompany service fee | 0us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Operating profit | 0us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Interest and financing expenses | (10,771)us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Intergroup interest and financing expenses | 9,061us-gaap_InterestExpenseRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember |
Other income (expenses), net | (50,052)us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | (51,762)us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Income tax expense (benefit) | (6,928)us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Income from continuing operations before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | (44,834)alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Net income from continuing operations | (44,834)us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries | 53,732alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Net income | 8,898us-gaap_ProfitLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_ProfitLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests | 0us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation | 8,898us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember | 0us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ParentCompanyMember
4.625% Senior Notes | Guarantor Subsidiaries |  |
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] |  |
Net sales | 0us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Cost of goods sold | 0us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Gross profit | 0us-gaap_GrossProfit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_GrossProfit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 0us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Research and development expenses | 0us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Restructuring and other charges, net |  | 0us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Acquisition and integration related costs | 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember |
Intercompany service fee | 0us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Operating profit | 0us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Interest and financing expenses | 0us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Intergroup interest and financing expenses | 0us-gaap_InterestExpenseRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember |
Other income (expenses), net | 0us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Income tax expense (benefit) | 0us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Income from continuing operations before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 0alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Net income from continuing operations | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries | 8,898alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Net income | 8,898us-gaap_ProfitLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_ProfitLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests | 0us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation | 8,898us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_GuarantorSubsidiariesMember
4.625% Senior Notes | Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries |  |
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] |  |
Net sales | 687,615us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 383,831us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Cost of goods sold | 546,776us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 303,361us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Gross profit | 140,839us-gaap_GrossProfit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 80,470us-gaap_GrossProfit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 95,248us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 22,335us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Research and development expenses | 13,124us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 8,416us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Restructuring and other charges, net |  | 14,000us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Acquisition and integration related costs | 20,643us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember |
Intercompany service fee | (5,665)us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | (5,070)us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Operating profit | 17,489us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 40,789us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Interest and financing expenses | 1,681us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 25us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Intergroup interest and financing expenses | (3,147)us-gaap_InterestExpenseRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember |
Other income (expenses), net | 71,441us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 935us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 87,464us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 41,749us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Income tax expense (benefit) | 11,068us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 2,674us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Income from continuing operations before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 76,396alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 39,075alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 8,373us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 6,965us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Net income from continuing operations | 84,769us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 46,040us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | (1,356)us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries | 8,898alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 0alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Net income | 93,667us-gaap_ProfitLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 44,684us-gaap_ProfitLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests | (4,034)us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | (7,652)us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation | 89,633us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember | 37,032us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_NonGuarantorSubsidiariesMember
4.625% Senior Notes | Consolidating Adjustments |  |
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] |  |
Net sales | (181,383)us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | (160,312)us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Cost of goods sold | (178,962)us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | (160,710)us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Gross profit | (2,421)us-gaap_GrossProfit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 398us-gaap_GrossProfit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 0us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 0us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Research and development expenses | 0us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 0us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Restructuring and other charges, net |  | 0us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Acquisition and integration related costs | 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember |
Intercompany service fee | 0us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 0us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Operating profit | (2,421)us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 398us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Interest and financing expenses | 0us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 0us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Intergroup interest and financing expenses | 0us-gaap_InterestExpenseRelatedParty / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember |
Other income (expenses), net | 0us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 0us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | (2,421)us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 398us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Income tax expense (benefit) | (892)us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 145us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Income from continuing operations before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | (1,529)alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 253alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Net income from continuing operations | (1,529)us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 253us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries | (105,900)alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | (37,285)alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Net income | (107,429)us-gaap_ProfitLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | (37,032)us-gaap_ProfitLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests | 0us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | 0us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation | $ (107,429)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember | $ (37,032)us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss / us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis = alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember / dei_LegalEntityAxis = us-gaap_ConsolidationEliminationsMember

X
- Definition Income before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | alb_IncomeBeforeEquityInNetIncomeOfUnconsolidatedInvestments
Namespace Prefix: | alb_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Undistributed Earnings in Equity Method Investments + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | alb_UndistributedEarningsinEquityMethodInvestments
Namespace Prefix: | alb_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition This element represents acquisition-related costs incurred to effect a business combination which costs have been expensed during the period. Such costs include finder's fees; advisory, legal, accounting, valuation, and other professional or consulting fees; general administrative costs, including the costs of maintaining an internal acquisitions department; and may include costs of registering and issuing debt and equity securities. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 805 -SubTopic 10 -Section 25 -Paragraph 23 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=34752592&loc=d3e1043-128460 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_CondensedIncomeStatementsCaptionsLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Total costs related to goods produced and sold during the reporting period. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 225 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.2(a)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26872669&loc=d3e20235-122688 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Costs of sales and operating expenses for the period incurred from transactions with related parties. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 225 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26872669&loc=d3e20235-122688 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CostsAndExpensesRelatedParty
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Aggregate revenue less cost of goods and services sold or operating expenses directly attributable to the revenue generation activity. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 225 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.1,2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26872669&loc=d3e20235-122688 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_GrossProfit
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income or expense before Income or Loss from equity method investments, income taxes, extraordinary items, and noncontrolling interest. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(h)(1)(i)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26873400&loc=d3e23780-122690 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition This element represents the income or loss from continuing operations attributable to the economic entity which may also be defined as revenue less expenses and taxes from ongoing operations before extraordinary items, and noncontrolling interest. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 19 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=51664549&loc=SL4569616-111683 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount after tax of income (loss) from a discontinued operation including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Includes, but is not limited to, the income (loss) from operations during the phase-out period, gain (loss) on disposal, gain (loss) for reversal of write-down (write-down) to fair value, less cost to sell, and adjustments to a prior period gain (loss) on disposal. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 15 -Article 5 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 205 -SubTopic 20 -Section 45 -Paragraph 3B -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=51716988&loc=SL51721525-107759 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 205 -SubTopic 20 -Section 45 -Paragraph 3A -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=51716988&loc=SL51721523-107759 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 205 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=51717284&loc=d3e1361-107760 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 205 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 5C -Subparagraph (b)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=51717284&loc=SL51721675-107760 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 205 -SubTopic 20 -Section 45 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=51716988&loc=d3e1012-107759 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 205 -SubTopic 20 -Section 45 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=51716988&loc=d3e957-107759 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 225 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04.12) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879464&loc=d3e573970-122913 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Paragraph 13 -Article 7 Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 225 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.14) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26872669&loc=d3e20235-122688 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. This item includes income or expense related to stock-based compensation based on the investor's grant of stock to employees of an equity method investee. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=56944662&loc=d3e3602-108585 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 9 -Article 5 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 323 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35755396&loc=d3e33749-111570 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 225 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.12) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26872669&loc=d3e20235-122688 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Paragraph 11 -Article 7 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of current income tax expense (benefit) and deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to continuing operations. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(h)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26873400&loc=d3e23780-122690 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Income Tax Expense (or Benefit) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6515339 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 740 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 9 -Subparagraph (a),(b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6907707&loc=d3e32639-109319 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Interest and debt related expenses associated with nonoperating financing activities of the entity. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 835 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6450988&loc=d3e26243-108391 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_InterestAndDebtExpense
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of interest expense incurred on a debt or other obligation to related party. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_InterestExpenseRelatedParty
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=56944662&loc=d3e3602-108585 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 260 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6371337&loc=d3e3550-109257 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Other Comprehensive Income -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=51831270 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Net Income -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=51831255 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 225 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04.19) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879464&loc=d3e573970-122913 Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 225 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.18) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26872669&loc=d3e20235-122688 Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 225 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04.22) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879464&loc=d3e573970-122913 Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 19 -Article 5 Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Paragraph 20 -Article 9 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of Net Income (Loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1A -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=18733093&loc=SL4573702-111684 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 55 -Paragraph 4J -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35736750&loc=SL4591551-111686 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The net amount of other income and expense amounts, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, resulting from ancillary business-related activities (that is, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business) also known as other nonoperating income (expense) recognized for the period. Such amounts may include: (a) dividends, (b) interest on securities, (c) net gains or losses on securities, (d) unusual costs, (e) gains or losses on foreign exchange transactions, and (f) miscellaneous other income and expense items. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 225 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.9) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26872669&loc=d3e20235-122688 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 19 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=51664549&loc=SL4569616-111683 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 55 -Paragraph 4K -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35736750&loc=SL4591552-111686 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (a),(c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=18733093&loc=SL4573702-111684 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 810 -SubTopic 10 -Section 55 -Paragraph 4J -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35736750&loc=SL4591551-111686 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ProfitLoss
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the hope that such knowledge will be useful in developing a new product or service, a new process or technique, or in bringing about a significant improvement to an existing product or process; or (2) to translate research findings or other knowledge into a plan or design for a new product or process or for a significant improvement to an existing product or process whether intended for sale or the entity's use, during the reporting period charged to research and development projects, including the costs of developing computer software up to the point in time of achieving technological feasibility, and costs allocated in accounting for a business combination to in-process projects deemed to have no alternative future use. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 985 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6501960&loc=d3e128462-111756 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 730 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6420194&loc=d3e21568-108373 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ResearchAndDevelopmentExpense
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The aggregate amount provided for estimated restructuring charges, remediation costs, and asset impairment loss during an accounting period. Generally, these items are either unusual or infrequent, but not both (in which case they would be extraordinary items). + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 225 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.3) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26872669&loc=d3e20235-122688 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Total revenue from sale of goods and services rendered during the reporting period, in the normal course of business, reduced by sales returns and allowances, and sales discounts. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 225 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26872669&loc=d3e20235-122688 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_SalesRevenueNet
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The aggregate total costs related to selling a firm's product and services, as well as all other general and administrative expenses. Direct selling expenses (for example, credit, warranty, and advertising) are expenses that can be directly linked to the sale of specific products. Indirect selling expenses are expenses that cannot be directly linked to the sale of specific products, for example telephone expenses, Internet, and postal charges. General and administrative expenses include salaries of non-sales personnel, rent, utilities, communication, etc. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 225 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.4) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26872669&loc=d3e20235-122688 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 330 -SubTopic 10 -Section 30 -Paragraph 8 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=51677171&loc=d3e3636-108311 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=alb_FourPointSixTwoFivePercentSeniorNotesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |