Financial Information by Segment (Schedule of Advanced Technologies Business Segment) (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 41	$ 57	$ 79	$ 96
Inkjet Colorants [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	12	15	28	30
Aerogel [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	3	5	8	9
Security Materials [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	2	3	3	5
Elastomer Composites [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	4	7	12	11
Specialty Fluids [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 20	$ 27	$ 28	$ 41