A passively impact resistant composite electrolyte composition includes an aprotic electrolyte solvent, from 0.5 to 6M of an electrolyte salt, and shear thickening particles having a polydispersity index of no greater than 0.1, an average particle size in a range of 50 nm to 1 um, and an absolute zeta potential of greater than ±40 mV. The shear thickening particles have thereon an electrochemical double layer. The composition further includes a stabilizing surfactant. The stabilizing surfactant includes a first portion for adsorbing to the particles, and a second portion that is absorbed in the solvent. The length of the surfactant from the first portion to the second portion is greater than twice the thickness of the electrochemical double layer. Batteries and electrochemical devices incorporating the electrolyte composition are disclosed. Methods of making the electrolyte composition and of operating a battery are also disclosed.