While there may certainly be some truth to the claim that both of these methods expose more silicon per gram, the function of solar panels is to provide more area normal to the solar flux, not to create extra area for catalytic reactions. These teams have lost sight of the goal.

OK perhaps pseudo-science is a bit harsh, but it is more important to point out that when researchers are allowed to make claims that have no bearing on the relevant issue, we’re all harmed. If they had made even passing reference to solar concentration, and the dissipation of surplus heat, then the comments would be quite different. But I cannot assume that they have considered these issues because of the way the claims were presented.

They exaggerated, and they know it! It’s somewhere between a sitcom and a melodrama; either way, it’s just not to be believed.