Business Segments (Segment information) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2015
Mar. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2014
Business Segment Information      
Net sales $ 7,578 $ 7,831  
Operating Income 1,730 1,716  
Assets 30,643   31,269
Depreciation and amortization 339 350  
Business Segments | Industrial      
Business Segment Information      
Net sales 2,658 2,776  
Operating Income 598 618  
Business Segments | Safety and Graphics      
Business Segment Information      
Net sales 1,372 1,423  
Operating Income 335 318  
Business Segments | Electronics and Energy      
Business Segment Information      
Net sales 1,322 1,311  
Operating Income 283 227  
Business Segments | Health Care      
Business Segment Information      
Net sales 1,329 1,374  
Operating Income 408 427  
Business Segments | Consumer      
Business Segment Information      
Net sales 1,048 1,079  
Operating Income 240 228  
Corporate and Unallocated      
Business Segment Information      
Net sales 2 3  
Operating Income (100) (72)  
Elimination of Dual Credit      
Business Segment Information      
Net sales (153) (135)  
Operating Income $ (34) $ (30)