  We use a model whose rules were inspired by population genetics, the random
capability growth model, to describe the statistical details observed in
experiments of fragmentation of brittle platelike objects, and in particular
the existence of (i) composite scaling laws, (ii) small critical exponents \tau
associated with the power-law fragment-size distribution, and (iii) the typical
pattern of cracks. The proposed computer simulations do not require numerical
solutions of the Newton's equations of motion, nor several additional
assumptions normally used in discrete element models. The model is also able to
predict some physical aspects which could be tested in new experiments of
fragmentation of brittle systems.
