Composites are typically no homogeneous and anisotropic materials, both from the point of microstructural view as well mechanical properties. The failure mechanisms are affected by the spatial distribution and quality of the adhesion the interface matrix-reinforcement. The traditional techniques of microscopic characterization are enough limited to characterize this type of material since sections or two-dimensional projections may not fully reveal the anisotropic microstructure. When search to understand the origin of failure mechanisms, these limitations are even more important. In the present work, a three-dimensional characterization methodology based on X-ray microtomography was developed. The material evaluated was an epoxy matrix composite reinforced with glass fibers unidirectionally aligned. The samples (CP) were tomographed before and after the bending tests at different loads. The 3D images were analyzed to identify and quantify voids and cracks, both defects were originated in the process of manufacturing as were generated during the mechanical tests. A 3D registration procedure was developed between the sample images obtained before and after the bending tests, in the elastic range and after the failure. An assessment of the uncertainty of the procedure was performed doing more than one tomography of the samples as received, registering and comparing the resulting 3D images. The results showed a clear increase in the volume of the defects after material failure. The 3D visualization of specific regions of the tomographies allowed the identification of the formation and the growth of these defects generated by the mechanical stress.