A biochar-based catalyst prepared by potassium ferrate oxidation coupled high-temperature pyrolysis and its application for the activation of peroxymonosulfate towards the degradation of norfloxacin: Performance and mechanism insight

•A biochar catalysts was prepared by potassium ferrate oxidation coupled pyrolysis.•Iron species and carbonyl groups acted as main active sites for PMS activation.•Radicals and non-radicals contributed equally 50 % to NOR degradation.•800Fe2BC2 had a good application prospect for activating PMS to degrade organics.