Solid formations of non-volatile bituminous materials suitable for reducing carbon dioxide emissions during transport

The invention relates to a reservoir for irregularly shaped bricks cast from a non-volatile bituminous material, comprising a reservoir having a specialized storage chamber which can receive a viscous bituminous material, and a concave lid preferably modified with a radiant heating system which can accept and melt or soften the incoming bricks. The lid includes several openings or other inlets that channel the molten bituminous material to the chamber below. The radiant heating system can be electric, with cables or grids embedded in the lid, or conductive materials can be used to cover the lid or be distributed throughout its mass. Alternatively, the radiant heating system can be hydronic, with channels or conduits incorporated into the lid to circulate a heated liquid, such as water, or water mixed with propylene glycol. The tank may also contain mixers, skimmers, and additional heating systems to further skim, mix, or process the bituminous material collected in the chamber.