Information About Reportable Segments (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 121,373	$ 135,928
Operating income (loss)	(684)	13,232
High Performance Foams
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	40,434	39,135
Operating income (loss)	1,445	4,634
Printed Circuit Materials
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	39,381	42,853
Operating income (loss)	(346)	4,830
Power Electronics Solutions | Curamik Electronics Solutions
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	24,292	32,897
Operating income (loss)	(1,773)	302
Power Electronics Solutions | Power Distribution Systems
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	10,517	12,435
Operating income (loss)	(649)	2,265
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	6,749	8,608
Operating income (loss)	$ 639	$ 1,201