Discontinued Operations (Details) (USD $) In Millions	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009	Dec. 31, 2008
Discontinued Operations Details [Abstract]
Discontinued Operation Gain (Loss) on Disposal, Net of Tax	$ 2.5	$ (1.0)	$ 5.5

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tmo_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossOnDisposalNetOfTax

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tmo

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xbrli:monetaryItemType

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credit

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duration