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Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Mar. 31, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]  
Borrowing under credit facility $ 0us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity
NL  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]  
Borrowing under credit facility $ 40us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity
/ dei_LegalEntityAxis
= nl_NlMember