The cone beam X-ray micro-computerized tomography (XMT) instrumentation is state-of-the-art, non-invasive technology now used effectively for several years to describe important characteristics of packed particle beds in three-dimensional (3D) detail. The micro-CT makes use of X-rays to reconstruct a 3D image of the sample under study where the digital data is directly related to the composition of the material, therefore providing considerable information. For example the XMT data can be used to determine the mineral composition and spatial distribution of mineral phases in addition to other information. Advanced computer techniques are used for 3D image processing and data analysis, for example 3D watershed segmentation and finite mixture distribution (FMD) modelling. The methodology for analysis and characterization of packed particle beds is discussed and the analysis of a copper ore sample is presented to illustrate the approach. (C) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.