Classification of Segments (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Operating Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations	$ 21,378	$ 16,188	$ 3,515
Total assets	251,916	235,185	230,738
Capital expenditures	11,404	8,884	12,001
Depreciation and amortization	13,572	14,478	14,407
Performance Materials Segment [Member]
Operating Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations	10,400	18,194	17,247
Total assets	74,119	71,379	74,895
Capital expenditures	5,231	3,801	3,825
Depreciation and amortization	529	5,718	5,340
Thermalacoustical Metals Segment [Member]
Operating Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations	14,708	15,915	11,853
Total assets	96,019	93,921	95,571
Capital expenditures	4,063	2,413	2,859
Depreciation and amortization	5,019	5,210	7,708
Thermalacoustical Fibers Segment [Member]
Operating Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations	12,851	(3,055)	(11,407)
Total assets	26,830	28,844	27,001
Capital expenditures	1,033	1,148	4,129
Depreciation and amortization	2,324	2,536	2,292
Other Products and Services Segment [Member]
Operating Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations	1,190	(1,040)	(131)
Total assets	11,195	11,064	20,690
Capital expenditures	128	270	724
Depreciation and amortization	596	726	868
Corporate Office [Member]
Operating Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations	(17,771)	(13,826)	(14,047)
Total assets	43,753	29,977	12,581
Capital expenditures	949	1,252	464
Depreciation and amortization	$ 343	$ 288	$ 491