The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for forming a composite structure, preferably for use in an absorbent structure used within the personal hygiene industry, such as for instance feminine hygiene garments, baby diapers and pants and adult incontinence garments. The present invention preferably provides a method and apparatus for depositing particulate material in a desired pattern onto a moving carrier layer and positioning it into a pocketing pattern. The method allows accurate forming of a pre-determined pattern of particulate material clusters at high production speed, with reduced raw material usage and relative low cost. As such method allows manufacturing of absorbent structures being substantially cellulose free and substantially glue free, considered technically, economically and environmentally friendly. The present invention foresees in the need for an improved thin, flexible, lightweight particulate material absorbent structure which overcomes the problems of the prior art having optimal absorption, distribution and retention.
