Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Shares Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Shares (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders	$ 13,033	$ 38,185	$ (15,930)	$ 50,441
Weighted-average shares outstanding - basic	80,631	80,749	80,605	80,722
Dilutive effect of stock-based compensation	251	261	0	255
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted	80,882	81,010	80,605	80,977
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations per common share, attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Basic	$ 0.16	$ 0.47	$ (0.20)	$ 0.62
Diluted	$ 0.16	$ 0.47	$ (0.20)	$ 0.62