The present invention is a sample tank for storing and transporting a fluid sample withdrawn from an earth formation by a formation fluid sampling tool. The sample tank includes a storage cylinder adapted to withstand high internal pressure. The storage cylinder is selectively hydraulically connected to the sampling tool for conducting the fluid sample into the storage cylinder. A fusible metal substantially surrounds the storage cylinder. The fusible metal has a melting temperature not more than the temperature of the fluid sample, so that solidification of the fusible metal maintains the fluid sample substantially at the melting temperature of the fusible metal during solidification of the fusible metal as the tool is withdrawn from the wellbore and cooled. The fusible metal is surrounded by an outer housing which contains the fusible metal when it is in a liquid state.