There are lots of artificial chemistries, with varying levels of closeness to real chemistry. A review paper in 2001 surveyed the literature at the time. Google for artificial chemistry to find more.
For artificial chemistries closely related to the one explored here, you are invited to read Tim J. Hutton's papers.
If you have any questions, post a message to the discussion forum, or email tim.hutton@gmail.com or dechouxbREMOVE@gmail.com.