State-of-the-art anodes in lithium-ion batteries are typically composed of porous graphite layers that are coated on a thin, current-collecting copper foil. Their properties strongly depend on the complex microstructure, which is defined by the pore structure and the distribution of functional additives throughout the film. Polymeric binder is added in small amounts in order to provide the film with mechanical integrity, while carbon black constitutes a conductivity enhancing agent. The microstructure essentially evolves during solvent removal, which makes drying a paramount, yet insufficiently understood processing step. In the present work, different experimental approaches are introduced that allows for optical evaluation of microsture during drying b ymeans of EDX, CRAYO SEM to determine the onset of pore emptying and component migration as a function of definded process paramters. It could be shown for the first rime that the drying play a key role with regard to pore emptying and component distribution and electrode properties.