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Summary of significant accounting policies (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified | 12 Months Ended
--- | ---
Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2010 | Dec. 31, 2009
Leases |  |  |
Operating lease expense | $ 14 | $ 13 | $ 16
Future minimum lease payments |  |  |
2012 | 23 |  |
2013 | 18 |  |
2014 | 15 |  |
2015 | 12 |  |
2016 and thereafter | $ 10 |  |
Maximum |  |  |
Cash and cash equivalents |  |  |
Original maturity period of investments classified as cash equivalents (in months) | 3 |  |
Equity method |  |  |
Ownership percentage of affiliates classified as equity method investments | 50.00% |  |

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