Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Land, Buildings and Structures, and Leasehold Improvements [Member] Land, Buildings and Improvements [Member] Machinery and Equipment [Member] Machinery and Equipment [Member] Office Furniture and Equipment [Member] Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Mineral Interests [Member] Mining Properties and Mineral Rights [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less accumulated depreciation and depletion Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] 2015 Incentive Award Plan [Member] 2015 Incentive Award Plan [Member] Refers to the incentive plan which authorizes the company to issue shares to the shareholders, adopted in the year 2015. Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Stock Options [Member] Employee Stock Option [Member] PSUs [Member] Performance Stock Units PSU [Member] Performance Stock Units (PSUs) are divided into three approximately equal tranches. Each tranche must satisfy an annual performance criterion based upon total shareholder return for the PSUs to be earned. The performance units will vest three years after the grant date. The PSUs granted entitle the holders to receive non-forfeitable dividends or other distributions equal to those declared on the Company's common stock for PSUs earned. TSR PSUs [Member] Total Shareholder Return Performance Stock Units [Member] Represents the total shareholder return PSU ("TSR PSU"). ROIC PSUs [Member] Return on Invested Capital Performance Stock Units [Member] Represents the return on invested capital PSU ("ROIC PSU"). RSUs [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Shares authorized for issuance (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Options expiration period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period Number of shares available from conversion (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement By Share-Based Payment Award, Number Of Shares Converted Share-Based Compensation Arrangement By Share-Based Payment Award, Number Of Shares Converted Fair value measurement method Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used Service period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Requisite Service Period Performance period of PSUs Performance period of PSUs The performance period (in years) of each PSUs. Minimum percentage of earnings (in hundredths) Minimum percentage of earnings For each tranche, the minimum percentage of earnings based upon the Company's total shareholder return. Maximum percentage of earnings (in hundredths) Maximum percentage of earnings For each tranche, the maximum percentage of earnings based upon the Company's total shareholder return. Reissued shares of treasury stock (in shares) Reissued Shares Of Treasury Stock Related To The Exercise Of Stock Options This element is related to shares of treasury stocks reissued. Tax deficiency from equity compensation awards recorded as an increase to income tax expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Deficiency from Share-based Compensation Compensation expense recorded during period pursuant to stock-based compensation plans Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Gains and (Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges [Member] Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member] Defined Benefit Pension [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Foreign Currency [Member] Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Total [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward] AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Ending balance Losses (gains) on foreign exchange of intercompany notes of long-term nature Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Unrealized gain (loss) from change in pension obligations, tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Inventories Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair value measurements Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Fair value of hedged items Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Produquímica [Member] Produquímica Indústria e Comércio S.A. [Member] Produquímica Indústria e Comércio S.A. [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Trade Names [Member] Trade Names [Member] Developed Technology [Member] Developed Technology Rights [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Estimated fair value Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Weighted average amortization period Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Secured Debt [Member] Secured Debt [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] New Tranche Term Loans Due July 2021 [Member] New Tranche Term Loans Due July 2021 [Member] New Tranche Term Loans Due July 2021 [Member] Term Loans due May 2017 [Member] Term Loan due May 2017 [Member] Refers to Term Loan due May 2017. Revolving Credit Facility due August 2017 [Member] Line of Credit [Member] Secured Credit Agreement Due July 2021 [Member] Secured Credit Agreement Due July 2021 [Member] Secured Credit Agreement Due July 2021 [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Face amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Interest acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Variable interest rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Gross debt issuance costs Debt Issuance Costs, Gross Refinancing expense Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Debt refinanced Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Write-off of existing deferred financing costs Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level One [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level Two [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level Three [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] 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] Asset Class: Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Mutual fund investments in a non-qualified retirement plan Alternative Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Derivatives – natural gas instruments, net Derivatives, Assets, Natural Gas Instruments, Fair Value Disclosure Derivatives, Assets, Natural Gas Instruments, Fair Value Disclosure Trading securities Trading Securities Total Assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liability Class: Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Liabilities related to non-qualified retirement plan Liabilities Related to Nonqualified Savings Plan, Fair Value Disclosure This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. These liabilities are related to investments carried in the company's Non-qualified Savings Plan. Derivatives – natural gas instruments, net Derivatives, Liability, Natural Gas Instruments, Fair Value Disclosure This element represents the liabilities reported on the balance sheet at period end measured at fair value by the entity related to natural gas derivative instruments. Derivatives – foreign currency swaps Derivatives, Liability, Foreign Currency Swaps, Fair Value Disclosure Derivatives, Liability, Foreign Currency Swaps, Fair Value Disclosure Total Liabilities Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Mutual fund investments percentage of fund invested in common stock of large-cap U.S. (in hundredths) Mutual Fund Investments Percentage Of Fund Invested In Common Stock Of Large Cap U S For Mutual fund investments in a non-qualified savings plan, the percentage of the total fund invested in common stock of large-cap U.S. companies. Mutual fund investments percentage of fund invested in common stock of small cap to mid-cap (in hundredths) Mutual fund investments percentage of fund invested in common stock of small cap To Mid Cap For Mutual fund investments in a non-qualified savings plan, the percentage of the total fund invested in common stock of small-cap to mid-cap U.S. companies. Mutual fund investments percentage of fund invested in common stock of international companies (in hundredths) Mutual fund investments percentage of fund invested in common stock of international companies For Mutual fund investments in a non-qualified savings plan, the percentage of the total fund invested in common stock of international companies. Mutual fund investments percentage of fund invested in bond funds (in hundredths) Mutual fund investments percentage of fund invested in debt securities For Mutual fund investments in a non-qualified savings plan, the percentage of the total fund invested in debt securities of U.S. Companies. Mutual fund investments percentage of fund invested in short-term investments (in hundredths) Mutual fund investments percentage of fund invested in short term investments For Mutual fund investments in a non-qualified savings plan, the percentage of the total fund invested in short-term investments. Mutual fund investments percentage of fund invested in blended funds (in hundredths) Mutual fund investments percentage of fund invested in blended funds For Mutual fund investments in a non-qualified savings plan, the percentage of the total fund invested in blended funds. 4.875% Senior Notes [Member] Senior Notes July 2024 [Member] Bond that takes priority over other debt securities sold by the issuer. In the event the issuer goes bankrupt, senior debt holders receive priority for (must receive) repayment prior to (relative to) junior and unsecured (general) creditors. Term loan [Member] Credit Agreement [Member] The Credit Agreement is made up of the following debt tranches: the Term Loan, the Incremental Term Loan, and the Extended Term Loan. Senior notes, interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Fair value of senior notes Senior Notes Aggregate principal amount due at maturity Fair value of credit agreement debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Computation of basic and diluted earnings per common share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Grant Date [Axis] Award Date [Axis] Grant Date [Domain] Award Date [Domain] 2013 Grant [Member] Grant Date 2013 [Member] Grant Date 2013 [Member] Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Cancelled/Expired (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Outstanding at end of period (in shares) Weighted-average exercise price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Weighted-average exercise price at beginning of period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price, Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price, Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price, Cancelled/Expired (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price at end of period (in dollars per share) Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Released from restriction (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Cancelled/Expired (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Outstanding at end of period (in shares) Weighted-average fair value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Weighted-average fair value at beginning of period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average fair value, Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average fair value, Released from restriction (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average fair value, Cancelled/Expired (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average fair value at end of period (in dollars per share) PSU at grant date (in shares per unit) Performance Stock Units At Grant Date The shares per unit related to attainment level of Performance Stock Units at grant date. Property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Sales Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Shipping and handling cost Shipping, Handling and Transportation Costs Product cost Mineral Extraction Processing and Marketing Costs Gross profit Gross Profit Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Operating earnings Operating Income (Loss) Other (income) expense: Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest expense Interest Expense Earnings in equity investee Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other, net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Earnings before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net earnings Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Basic net earnings per common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted net earnings per common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted-average common shares outstanding (in thousands): Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Cash dividends per share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $9.2 in 2017 and $9.0 in 2016 Receivables, Net, Current Inventories Inventory, Net Other Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment, net Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Goodwill Goodwill Investment in equity investee Equity Method Investments Other Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Accounts payable Accounts Payable Current and Other Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer) and Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable, which are not elsewhere specified in the taxonomy. Accrued expenses Accrued Liabilities, Current Accrued salaries and wages Employee-related Liabilities, Current Income taxes payable Accrued Income Taxes, Current Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt, net of current portion Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Deferred income taxes, net Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net Other noncurrent liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders’ equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Common stock: $0.01 par value, 200,000,000 authorized shares; 35,367,264 issued shares Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Treasury stock, at cost — 1,544,483 shares at March 31, 2017, and 1,577,960 shares at December 31, 2016 Treasury Stock, Value Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total stockholders’ equity Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Derivative Financial Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Commodity Contracts [Member] Commodity Contract [Member] Swap Contracts [Member] Currency Swap [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments [Member] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Underlying risk Derivative, Underlying Risk, Description Period through which natural gas is hedged Derivative, Remaining Maturity Date Period remaining until the derivative contract matures, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Percent of forecasted usage to be hedged (up to 90%) Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Percent of Required Need, Coverage Maximum period which the Company hedges in advance of forecasted purchase Maximum Length of Time Hedged in Cash Flow Hedge Notional amount (in MMBtus) Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Energy Measure Net gains to be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to earnings during the next 12 months Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Notional amount Derivative, Notional Amount Loss on changes in fair value of derivative instruments Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Net earnings Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Unrealized gain from change in pension obligations, net of tax of $(0.0) in both 2017 and 2016 Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, net of tax of $0.3 and $(0.1) in 2017 and 2016, respectively Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Cumulative translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash flows provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation, depletion and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Finance fee amortization Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Earnings in equity method investee Gain on settlement of acquisition-related contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability Other, net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisition: Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net [Abstract] Receivables Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Accounts payable and accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Other Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Proceeds from revolving credit facility borrowings Proceeds from Lines of Credit Principal payments on revolving credit facility borrowings Repayments of Lines of Credit Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Principal payments on long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Acquisition-related contingent consideration payment Payment For Contingent Consideration Liability, Financing Activities Payment For Contingent Consideration Liability, Financing Activities Dividends paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Proceeds received from stock option exercises Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Excess tax deficiency from equity compensation awards Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net change in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of the year Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Supplemental cash flow information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest paid, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Net Income taxes paid, net of refunds Income Taxes Paid, Net Schedule of consideration transferred Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Schedule of recognized amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of identifiable intangible assets acquired Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination [Table Text Block] Schedule of unaudited combined pro forma results of operations Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Plant Nutrition, North America [Member] Plant Nutrition, North America [Member] Plant Nutrition, North America [Member] Plant Nutrition South America [Member] Plant Nutrition, South America [Member] Plant Nutrition, South America [Member] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments [Member] Operating Segments [Member] Corporate and Other [Member] Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Intersegment Sales [Member] Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Salt [Member] Salt [Member] An operating segment is a component of an enterprise: (a) that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses (including revenues and expenses relating to transactions with other components of the same enterprise), (b) whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the enterprise's chief operating decision maker to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance, and (c) for which discrete financial information is available. Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Number of reportable segments Number of Reportable Segments Number of primary businesses Number Of Primary Businesses Number Of Primary Businesses Segment Reporting Information [Abstract] Segment Reporting, Disclosure of Entity's Reportable Segments [Abstract] Operating earnings (loss) Total assets (as of end of period) Senior Notes [Member] Senior Notes [Member] Term Loans Due July 2021 [Member] Term Loan Due July 2021 [Member] Term Loan Due July 2021 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Due July 2021 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Due July 2021 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Due July 2021 [Member] 4.875% Senior Notes due July 2024 [Member] Banco Bradesco Due February 2017 [Member] Banco Bradesco Due February 2017 [Member] Banco Bradesco Due February 2017 [Member] Banco Votorantim Due April 2017 [Member] Banco Votorantim Due April 2017 [Member] Banco Votorantim Due April 2017 [Member] Banco Bradesco Due July 2017 [Member] Banco Bradesco Due July 2017 [Member] Banco Bradesco Due July 2017 [Member] Scotiabank Due August 2017 [Member] Scotiabank Due August 2017 [Member] Scotiabank Due August 2017 [Member] Banco Itau Due September 2017 [Member] Banco Itau Due September 2017 [Member] Banco Itau Due September 2017 [Member] Scotiabank Due September 2017 [Member] Scotiabank Due September 2017 [Member] Scotiabank Due September 2017 [Member] Banco Votorantim Due September 2017 [Member] Banco Votorantim Due September 2017 [Member] Banco Votorantim Due September 2017 [Member] Banco Bradesco Due October 2017 [Member] Banco Bradesco Due October 2017 [Member] Banco Bradesco Due October 2017 [Member] Rabobank Due November 2017 [Member] Rabobank Due November 2017 [Member] Rabobank Due November 2017 [Member] Banco Itau Due May 2019 To April 2020 [Member] Banco Itau Due May 2019 To April 2020 [Member] Banco Itau Due May 2019 To April 2020 [Member] Banco Safra Loan Due September 2017 [Member] Banco Safra Loan Due September 2017 [Member] Banco Safra Loan Due September 2017 [Member] Financiadora de Estudos e Projetos Due November 2023 [Member] Financiadora de Estudos e Projetos Due November 2023 [Member] Financiadora de Estudos e Projetos Due November 2023 [Member] Banco Itau Loan Due September 2017 Loan 2 [Member] Banco Itau Due September 2017 Loan 2 [Member] Banco Itau Due September 2017 Loan 2 [Member] Banco Do Brasil Loan Due September 2017 [Member] Banco Do Brasil Due September 2017 [Member] Banco Do Brasil Due September 2017 [Member] Banco Do Brasil Loan Due October 2017 [Member] Banco Do Brasil Due October 2017 [Member] Banco Do Brasil Due October 2017 [Member] Long-term debt, gross Long-term Debt, Gross Less unamortized debt issuance costs Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net Total Debt Long-term Debt Less current portion Long-term debt Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Long-term debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Cash and cash equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Accounts receivable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables Inventory Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory Other current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other Property, plant and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Identified intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Investment in equity method investee Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Equity Method Investment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Equity Method Investment Other noncurrent assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets Accounts payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Accrued expenses Business Combination, Recognized Identified Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Expenses Business Combination, Recognized Identified Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Accrued Expenses Current portion of long-term debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Long-Term Debt, Current Maturities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Long-Term Debt, Current Maturities Other current liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other Long-term debt, net of current portion Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Long-term Debt Deferred income taxes, net Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Other noncurrent liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Total identifiable net assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Total fair value of business combination Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Inventories Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Term Loan due May 2017 [Member] Term Loan E Due May 2017 [Member] Term Loan E Due May 2017 [Member] Term Loan [Member] Term Loan [Member] Term Loan [Member] Ownership interest in investment Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Aggregate purchase price Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Fair value of contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Gain on settlement of acquisition-related contingent consideration Percentage of equity interest prior to acquisition Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Percentage Fair value of equity interest prior to acquisition Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Fair Value Gain from remeasurement of equity method investment Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Remeasurement Gain Decrease in goodwill Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments Decrease in other noncurrent liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Noncurrent Liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Noncurrent Liabilities Increase to net deferred income taxes Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Net Deferred Income Taxes Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Net Deferred Income Taxes Revenue Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Net losses Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Foreign Federal [Member] Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Foreign Federal 2033 [Member] Foreign Federal 2033 [Member] Designated tax departments of governments entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity outside the entity's country of domicile with an expiration date of 2033. State [Member] State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Canadian Provincial [Member] Canadian Provincial [Member] The designated tax department of a Canadian provincial government entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity. Canadian Federal and Provincial [Member] Canadian and Provincial [Member] The designated tax department of Canadian federal and provincial government entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity. Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Net operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Expiration date (beginning in 2033) Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date Income Tax Examination [Table] Income Tax Examination [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Tax Period [Axis] Tax Period [Axis] Tax Period [Domain] Tax Period [Domain] Tax Year 2004 Through 2006 [Member] Tax Year 2004 Through 2006 [Member] Identified as tax year 2004 through 2006. Tax Year 2007 Through 2008 [Member] Tax Year 2007 Through 2008 [Member] Identified as tax year 2007 through 2008. Income Tax Examination [Line Items] Income Tax Examination [Line Items] Years under examination Income Tax Examination, Year under Examination Total reassessments including interest Total Reassessment Amount Including Interest The estimated loss resulting from the income tax examination that has been reassessed as of the balance sheet date, including interest and penalties. Amount of security posted in the form of a performance bond Amount Of Security Posted In The Form Of A Performance Bond The estimated loss resulting from the income tax examination, including interest and penalties, that has been posted as security in the form of a performance bond in connection with the dispute. Amount of security posted in the form of cash Amount Of Security Posted In The Form Of Cash The estimated loss resulting from the income tax examination, including interest and penalties, that has been posted as security in the form of cash in connection with the dispute. Amount of security payable Amount Of Security Payable Amount Of Security Payable Total reassessment amount including penalty and interest Income Tax Reassessment, Total Amount Including Penalty Income Tax Reassessment, Total Amount Including Penalty Amount of security in the form of a bank letter guarantee Collateral Amount For Future Appeal Or Litigation Refers to the value of collateral necessary to proceed with future appeals or litigation. Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Basis of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassifications, net of income taxes [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Gains and (losses) from cash flow hedges [Member] Amortization of defined benefit pension [Member] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Product cost Income tax expense (benefit) Total reclassifications, net of income taxes Acquisition Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Cote Blanche [Member] Cote Blanche Mining Properties and Mineral Rights [Member] Legal right to explore, extract, and retain some or all portions of the benefits from mining or mineral deposits and properties used for mining. Brazilian Tax Litigation And Assessments [Member] Brazilian Tax Litigation And Assessments [Member] Brazilian Tax Litigation And Assessments [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Reserve for expected payments required to resolve the dispute Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Settlement amount Litigation Settlement, Amount Contingent liabilities assumed Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Contingent Liability Maximum exposure for other labor matters Loss Contingency, Other Labor Matters, Maximum Exposure Loss Contingency, Other Labor Matters, Maximum Exposure Operating Segments Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Current Assets [Member] Accrued Expenses [Member] Accrued Expenses [Member] Line item in the statement of financial position in which the fair value amounts of the derivative instruments are included. Other Assets [Member] Other Assets [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Other Liabilities [Member] Asset Derivatives Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Liability Derivatives Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Netting of contracts in a receivable position against contracts in payable positions Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Number of counterparties Derivative Number of counterparties The number of counterparties with which the Company has derivative agreements. Number of counterparties for amounts recorded as liabilities Derivative Number of counterparties for amounts recorded as liabilities The number of counterparties with which the Company has derivative agreements, for amounts recorded as liabilities. Segment information Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Raw materials and supplies Inventory, Raw Materials and Supplies, Net of Reserves Total inventories Revenues Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Net income Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Cash paid at closing Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Additional cash due at closing Business Combination, Additional Cash Due At Closing Business Combination, Additional Cash Due At Closing Fair value of 35% equity investment Total Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Including Equity Interest in Acquiree Held Prior to Combination Equity method investment ownership interest Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Common Stock, par or stated value per share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, shares issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury stock, shares (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares Stockholders' Equity and Equity Instruments Shareholders' Equity and Share-based Payments [Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-In Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Comprehensive income Dividends on common stock Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Shares issued for stock units Restricted Stock, Value, Shares Issued Net of Tax Withholdings Stock options exercised Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Stock-based compensation Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Stock-based compensation activity Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Components of and changes in accumulated other comprehensive income Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Reclassifications out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Numerator: Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Less: net earnings allocated to participating securities Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Diluted Net earnings available to common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Denominator (in thousands): Weighted-average common shares outstanding, shares for basic earnings per share (in shares) Weighted-average awards outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Shares for diluted earnings per share (in shares) Net earnings per common share, basic (in dollars per share) Net earnings per common share, diluted (in dollars per share) Participating securities (in shares) Net Earnings Allocated To Participating Securities This element represents the number of options, performance stock units, and restricted stock units that receive non-forfeitable dividends. Weighted anti-dilutive awards outstanding (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block]