Background: Brain arteriovenous malformations (AVM’s) are abnormal connections between arteries and veins. Endovascular glue embolization with N-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) is an accepted form of treatment, with most complications related to timing of polymerization. Current literature reports a wide range of polymerization times with large discrepancies between in-vivo and in-vitro results. Methods: Polymerization time was measured for mixtures of lipiodol/NBCA of 50/50, 60/40, 70/30. The influence of pH, temperature and presence of biological catalysts on polymerization rate was investigated in-vivo using submerged droplet tests. PVA-C, silicone and endothelium surfaces were compared and contact angles were measured to assess physical interaction with NBCA. High-speed video of glue injection through a microcatheter was captured to characterize coaxial flow. Results: Polymerization rate increases with pH and temperature. A hydrophilic substrate such as PVA-C provides surface properties that are most similar to endothelium. Endothelium provides a catalytic surface that increases the rate of polymerization. Blood products further increase the polymerization rate with RBC’s providing almost instantaneous polymerization of NBCA upon contact. Characterization of coaxial flow shows dripping to jetting transition with significant wall effect. Conclusions: We have successfully deconstructed and characterized the dynamic behavior of NBCA embolization. A refined understanding of NBCA behavior could help reduce embolization-related complications.